(March 5, 2024) Phillip Brandon has the kind of voice that transforms a remake even if he doesn’t deviate from the original. His baritone is deep and rich and it gives any song that he sings a distinctive sound. Just go on his TikTok page and watch his live performance of Earth, Wind & Fire’s “Love’s Holiday.”
Perhaps that’s because we don’t hear that kind of assertive baritone singing that much anymore in the pop and R&B world that it’s so striking. But Brandon does have his own way with a remake.
Brandon showcased his talent in 2017 on his album, The Story Begins, and he plans to continue that musical trek on his upcoming project, Déjà Vu, which features of remake of Rod Temperton’s “Mystery.” That tune was recorded by The Manhattan Transfer in 1983 and Anita Baker included “Mystery” on her breakthrough album, Rapture, three years later.
(March 5, 2024) Phillip Brandon has the kind of voice that transforms a remake even if he doesn’t deviate from the original. His baritone is deep and rich and it gives any song that he sings a distinctive sound. Just go on his TikTok page and watch his live performance of Earth, Wind & Fire’s “Love’s Holiday.”
Perhaps that’s because we don’t hear that kind of assertive baritone singing that much anymore in the pop and R&B world that it’s so striking. But Brandon does have his own way with a remake.
Brandon showcased his talent in 2017 on his album, The Story Begins, and he plans to continue that musical trek on his upcoming project, Déjà Vu, which features of remake of Rod Temperton’s “Mystery.” That tune was recorded by The Manhattan Transfer in 1983 and Anita Baker included “Mystery” on her breakthrough album, Rapture, three years later.
Brandon’s version features saxophonist Gerald Albright and the tight harmonies of the backing vocalist. The arrangement makes the tune a compelling amalgamation of The Manhattan Transfer’s jazzy original and Baker’s smooth, R&B remake. Then, there is Brandon’s vocal. This is a song that allows Brandon to showcase his tremendous vocal range, and he does exactly that. Check out the song and the amazing accompanying video here.
By Howard Dukes
Phillip Brandon feat. Gerald Albright
"Mystery"