(February 25, 2021) If you’ve been a SoulTracker for awhile, you’ve no doubt heard the music of Terisa Griffin. The talented Chicago singer and songwriter has won over fans among our readers over the past decade and a half for her keen sense of melody, her appreciation of timeless glamor, and, most of all, for that voice – a classic instrument that would have won over soul or jazz music fans of any era.
While she has mostly recorded her own compositions, Griffin has long been known as a song stylist, able to beautifully transform past gems like Marvin Gaye’s “Distant Lover” or my personal favorite, Aretha’s “Oh Me Oh My (I’m A Fool For You).” And, as she prepares a long-awaited new album that will be released later this year, Terisa has given us an early 2021 treat, with her cover of another Franklin gem.
(February 25, 2021) If you’ve been a SoulTracker for awhile, you’ve no doubt heard the music of Terisa Griffin. The talented Chicago singer and songwriter has won over fans among our readers over the past decade and a half for her keen sense of melody, her appreciation of timeless glamor, and, most of all, for that voice – a classic instrument that would have won over soul or jazz music fans of any era.
While she has mostly recorded her own compositions, Griffin has long been known as a song stylist, able to beautifully transform past gems like Marvin Gaye’s “Distant Lover” or my personal favorite, Aretha’s “Oh Me Oh My (I’m A Fool For You).” And, as she prepares a long-awaited new album that will be released later this year, Terisa has given us an early 2021 treat, with her cover of another Franklin gem.
“Angel” was a hit for Aretha in 1973, the kind of gently soulful ballad that helped create the template for the adult soul radio boom a decade later. Taking on such a familiar and influential gem takes confidence, and Griffin is simply brimming with confident personality in her brand new version of “Angel.” The single, which will be featured on a new multi-artist compilation on Platinum Vybe Recordings, is faithful to the original version but not reverential, as Griffin vamps and soars her way to a fresh, personal interpretation that feels just right.
This is great late time listening, and reminds us again of just how special a vocalist the Windy City has in its midst. Check out “Angel,” and welcome Terisa Griffin back to SoulTracks.
By Chris Rizik
Terisa Griffin – “Angel”