Every now and again I run across an artist that really blows my mind. When this happens, I'm moved to share my good fortune with kindred spirits.
Gregory Porter is a musician, a "bluesician," a "jazzician," a soulful funkster, a melodic magician, a rhythmic romancer, a vocal Baryshnikov....Frank Sinatra, Marvin Gaye, Nina Simone, Nat "King" Cole, Howlin' Wolf, Stevie Wonder and R Kelly rolled into one....and just an overall cool cat. He calls himself a jazz singer. Yet, he reminds us that musical categories are artificial; employed by record companies to market music to the masses.
He was born in California to a single mother with roots in Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana. His mom grew up in southern, black churches with the blues at her hip on every southern street. So, with his mother's milk, Gregory grew up consuming gospel, blues, jazz, soul and R&B. As he says, all these forms of music are "very close cousins," and he now blends them masterfully.
He is a renaissance man reminiscent of Paul Robeson. He played linebacker at San Diego State with NFL Hall of Famer, Marshall Faulk, before he suffered an injury which forced him to pursue his true passion...music. He's worked and toured for several years as a theatrical stage actor and even worked as a chef to make ends meet.
Finally, with the release of his Grammy nominated debut album "Water," he took the music world by storm. Gregory now resides in New York City and tours heavily.
Check out the video and title track from his sophomore album, "Be Good." The pure artistry of this video displays his theatrical roots and reminds me of why artists are essential to the human experience...in fact, it may be artistic expression that makes us truly human.
"Like bare feet on hot concrete," we must now be parting. But, as always....
Until we rendezvous...
Peace!!
I've just fell in love with another viable artist. His Buttery smooth sound put you in the mood for sitting outside under a completely dark but moonlit sky, sipping on a $20.00 glass of Red Wine,sharing complete slience with the one you love, but allowing Porter to communicate all of your unspoken thoughts between the both of you.
ReplyDeleteThat's Hot!
Thanks so much for the comments, Donna!! Yes, this cat is outstanding. Check out his rendition of Nina Simone's "Feeling Good"....he reaches back and calls up some those "old Africans" on that joint. "Wisdom" is also really deep. "On My Way to Harlem"...I could go on and on.
DeleteI really appreciate your kind words and I'm sure Gregory does too! Much love!!
Oh my gosh, I truly love every song on his album! He is truly unique and a breath of fresh air in the music industry. As a former dancer, your description of him as a vocal Baryshnikov is spot on. I am writing this comment the night after the Grammys and unfortunately Gregory lost out to Beyonce, who along with Anita Baker was nominated for Best Traditional R&B Song. So talk about politics, perhaps it played a part in last nights outcome.
ReplyDeleteCamille, thanks so much for your comments!! Yes, both albums, "Water," and "Be Good" are magnificent. At this point, it's hard to beat Beyonce...she's this era's Michael Jackson or Michael Jordan. She's just dominant!! But, Gregory's artistic savior faire will stand the test of time, for sure.
DeleteHe's just a smooth cat.
Stay in touch, Camille. And, I'm humbled by your interest in my writing.