(October 12, 2016) When listing the great soul music songwriters of the last two decades, you get to the name Gordon Chambers quickly. Gordon’s Grammy winning work with Anita Baker, as well as his hits for Beyonce, Brownstone, Angie Stone, Brandy, The Isley Brothers, Gladys Knight and more, made him one of the most sought after music men around. And a decade ago Gordon launched his solo career auspiciously, with the now classic album Introducing Gordon Chambers, establishing a second career for himself that has led him to be one of the most lauded artists in SoulTracks history.
(October 12, 2016) When listing the great soul music songwriters of the last two decades, you get to the name Gordon Chambers quickly. Gordon’s Grammy winning work with Anita Baker, as well as his hits for Beyonce, Brownstone, Angie Stone, Brandy, The Isley Brothers, Gladys Knight and more, made him one of the most sought after music men around. And a decade ago Gordon launched his solo career auspiciously, with the now classic album Introducing Gordon Chambers, establishing a second career for himself that has led him to be one of the most lauded artists in SoulTracks history.
It’s been five years since we’ve heard new music from Gordon, so we are excited that he is working on his new album, Surrender, with a bevy of brilliant artists by his side. And we’re even more excited to be able to present the World Premiere of the first single from the album, the incredible midtempo number, “I Made It,” a duet with longtime SoulTracks favorite, Eric Roberson, and co-writer and social activist, Steff Reed.
Gordon tells us, "From the moment I heard this incredible song, written by singer-songwriters Steff Reed and Phyllis 'Phoenix' Smith, I knew I had to record it. I changed a few lines here and there to personalize it, and unexpectedly in the studio I broke down and cried when I felt Whitney's (Houston) spirit as I sang the first verse. After recording the initial demo, Steff Reed--who also A&R'd the album--suggested I consider doing a men's anthem for the album. I then invited him to sing the bridge, and later my soul brother Eric Roberson--who I've toured with and has always encouraged me as a solo artist-- to sing the second verse. My good friends Nate Jones and Ricky Ramos, who play live with me as well as Trey Songz, played bass and guitar. And my MD Les Cleveland played drums on the track. This is truly a single of brotherhood, a celebration of surviving trials and tribulations, and a melody and message I hope will give music lovers faith and hope."
We are so pleased to be welcoming Gordon back, and think you will be even more pleased when you hear “I Made It.” Check it out below and tell us what you think.
World Premiere!
Gordon Chambers feat. Eric Roberson
and Steff Reed - “I Made It”
Click below to purchase the single from Amazon.com or here to get it from iTunes.