(June 17, 2019) Most would agree that one of the highlights of the typical wedding reception is the first dance, when the newlyweds take center stage in front of family and friends and sway, waltz, or two step their way toward forever. Each couple may approach choosing their first dance song differently, but the main idea is that the selection be just right for them.
Well, we've found that perfect selection, and it's our latest "First Listen." It's performed by international recording artist, Jermaine Purifory, a former American Idol contestant and the last lead singer of the legendary soul act, The Impressions (Yes, the Impressions who brought you classic soul hits like "People, Get Ready," "It's All Right" and "Amen." During the group's farewell tour in 2018, Jermaine - who is a Cleveland, Tennessee, native - sang alongside longtime Impressions Fred Cash and Sam Gooden, both of whom spoke highly of their young counterpart's talent).
It's fitting that Jermaine is singing a song that's tailor-made for the first dance because, according to him, he's sung for more weddings than he can count and has performed during various parts of the ceremony including the bride's entrance, the exchanging of vows, and so forth. But Jermaine says that one of the most special parts of the wedding experience for him is when he gets to sing for the first dance "because it's the first thing the couple does after they've said 'I Do'."
So Jermaine and his songwriting friend Wes Cepin worked together to pen "First Dance," a guitar and piano-driven ballad that will automatically transport you to the dance floor in your mind's eye. In true Southern gentleman fashion, Jermaine beautifully encapsulates the newlyweds' feelings in that special moment: "The song begins and the room stands still. I don't have the words to explain what I feel. I look at you and you look at me. I'm overwhelmed by what I see." As you can see from those lyrics alone,this is the type of track that can make your heart melt.
Check out "First Dance" below, and let's welcome Jermaine Purifory to SoulTracks! By the way, if you like this song, you'll be happy to know that Jermaine plans to release a wedding EP later this year. So stay tuned!
By Darnea N. Samuels
Jermaine Purifory - "First Dance"