Photo courtesy of Bradd Marquis
Sometimes, folks flipping between stations on the radio say there aren’t true soul singers out there anymore, just rappers and high-voiced kids. Those listeners have certainly not heard the stylings of Bradd Marquis, a singer, songwriter, musician and producer who delivers a sound that would move music lovers in the 70s, 80s, 90s or now. And, after several years away raising his family, Bradd is now back with a brand new album, Love…, that reminds us of just how much we missed him.
Love…hearkens back to the great R&B songs of the past few decades, and Bradd fronts them with his unmistakable baritone, giving them a depth that is undeniable. And to lead off the 7-song EP, Bradd has issued a two-sided single that shows the breadth of his musical powers.
“The Thrill is Gone” is a bluesy number that shares the title of a B.B. King classic, but is rather a powerful lamentation of the loss of deceased grandparents, highlighted by the stunning guitar solos of SoulTracks Readers' Choice Award nominee Marcus Machado. In contrasting fashion, “Always,” featuring longtime collaborator Stany Kibulu, is a song of new, passionate love that the singer knows will be forever. It has a 90s R&B vibe and a hook that Keith Sweat would kill for, as it convincingly declares Bradd's feelings for his new wife.
We’re excited to present “The Thrill is Gone” and “Always” as our two-sided Choice Cut for November. Check them out below and welcome the always-great Bradd Marquis back to SoulTracks.
Choice Cut
Bradd Marquis
“The Thrill is Gone” / “Always”