*Will Downing‘s voice is one of the most distinctive, loved and instantly recognizable voices in R&B. His flawless, emotive, buttery-smooth and honey-toned baritone, along with his impeccable phrasing and jazz-fueled agile runs, seamlessly bridge the worlds of R&B and Jazz.
Downing’s 20th CD Soul Survivor (released 9/22) is celebration of 30 years as a recording artist. As Downing reflects on his career longevity, he is grateful for his journey and not quite done yet.
“I started my music career in the early 80s with, in some ways, more talented artists who had better management and connections and who were willing to do whatever it took to make it. People often asked me why I wouldn’t conform to the music of the time and I would reply that I knew my strengths musically. I stuck to my convictions, while I saw a lot of artists come and go through the years. In an industry that is youth driven I consider myself blessed to still be relevant, still in the race and one of the few Soul Survivors of my era.”
Soul Survivor weaves together crafty writing/production, memorable duets, originals and reinventions and elements of R&B/Soul with urban contemporary jazz and house music. Soul Survivor easily excels as a fitting tribute to the incredible journey of soul music and a celebration of Will Downing’s remarkably sustained multi-decade career as a truly gifted recording artist. For Downing, his mission was simple.
“My goal every time I’m behind the microphone is to record a timeless piece of music. I want the listener to feel what I’m feeling when I sing it and understand the story of the lyrics.”
Soul Survivor should not only entertain, but also educate and inspire a new generation to continue the legacy. If by chance you can still find grown-folks who have not yet recognized and appreciated the fight in this artist to keep an original soul art form alive, or that is not emotionally moved in some way by this outstanding collection…you might want to check their pulse.
It’s time to recognize that the man that has seen it all, done it all, come through it all…Will Downing… is the one and only Soul Survivor. Will Downing concludes:
” Every time I step to the microphone I want to give a performance that when people 100 years from now listen to and say ‘That man could sing.’ What a great recording! I create because I’m always hearing something new in my head and heart. I pray the creative spirit never leaves me but if it does, I hope I’ve left enough of my creativity on the planet to inspire others.”
source:
Monifa Brown
Shanachie Entertainment
[email protected]
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