I put on Charles Bradley for the first time today just before running out the door in a flustered rush and I’ve been itching all day to get a chance to properly sit down and listen to him.

For various reasons and to my bemusement, Charles Bradley’s talents as a performer were never picked up on until now, however his life experiences make his music, lyrics and overall character that much more meaningful and sincere.

After reading his biography online, we learn that he spent a large chunk of his life on the streets in New York trying to get by and along with his family, grew up listening to soul godfathers like James Brown, Solomon Burke, Arthur Alexander and Otis Redding and as a result, gained a huge love and admiration for the music. It was only recently though that Daptone Records discovered him performing covers under the name Black Velvet in NYC and that is the real start of a much needed break for such a timeless voice.

Thinking about it now, this current age of music is never better for an act like this. The early days of the soul godfathers were unforgiving at best despite the glitz and glamour we see in images and videos and discovery platforms like blogs, YouTube, social networks and more enable his talents to spread to every corner of the globe.

Charles Bradley – The World (Is Going Up In Flames)

Charles Bradley – Heartaches and Pain (Live in KEXP)

Charles Bradley – Why Is It So Hard (Live in KEXP)

Find out more about him via his Facebook page.

We’re smitten!