(June 18, 2021) When Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway released their 1972 self-titled album of duets, they created a collection that is still revered today as one of the best front-to-back soul albums ever. So, anyone who covers a song from that iconic LP does so at their own peril. But when an artist goes takes on one of those classics and nails it, it is worth applause.
Bryan Courtney Wilson has been a mainstay in Gospel circles for more than a decade, and while he has been measured in the pace of his releases, each of his albums has been an absolute winner. It has been three years since he graced fans with A Great Work, so his fans have been anxiously waiting for new music. They may be surprised at his newest single, a laid back cover of the Roberta/Donny celebration of black love, “Be Real Black For Me.” But they won’t be surprised that it is a winner.
(June 18, 2021) When Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway released their 1972 self-titled album of duets, they created a collection that is still revered today as one of the best front-to-back soul albums ever. So, anyone who covers a song from that iconic LP does so at their own peril. But when an artist goes takes on one of those classics and nails it, it is worth applause.
Bryan Courtney Wilson has been a mainstay in Gospel circles for more than a decade, and while he has been measured in the pace of his releases, each of his albums has been an absolute winner. It has been three years since he graced fans with A Great Work, so his fans have been anxiously waiting for new music. They may be surprised at his newest single, a laid back cover of the Roberta/Donny celebration of black love, “Be Real Black For Me.” But they won’t be surprised that it is a winner.
Part of the success comes Wilson’s choice of duet partners, SoulTracks Readers’ Choice Award winner Ledisi, an artist who is on a scorching creative run that is rightly being celebrated. The other part is a lovely, sensual song that deserved to be presented to a new generation.
Your hair, soft and crinkly
Your body, strong and stately
You don't have to search and roam
'Cause I got your love at home
Be real black for me
“Be Real Black For Me” manages to express depths of both love and pride seemingly effortlessly, and Wilson and Ledisi do it proud. Check it out below, and enjoy this fresh take on a longtime favorite.
By Chris Rizik
Bryan Courtney Wilson feat. Ledisi
“Be Real Black For Me”