Playlist: What's Don Bryant listening to?
R&B legend Don Bryant is the man responsible for the classic I Can't Stand the Rain, which the Memphis singer and songwriter co-wrote with Ann Peebles, his wife of 43 years. Following a long career with Hi Records, including writing credits on tracks by Etta James and Solomon Burke, Bryant returns with his first album in decades, Don't Give Up on Love, out Friday. Here, the 75-year-old soul original gives USA Today readers a glimpse at what he's been listening to lately.
Listen along with our Spotify playlist.
Wait for the Moment, Vulfpeck
The dry sound and organ remind me of the Hi Records sound but more modern. I hear a little Sly Stone influence in this, too!
Changes , Charles Bradley
I’ve been hearing a lot of wonderful things from Charles Bradley. This really gives me inspiration that folks are still making relevant soul music.
Don't Leave Me Here , TajMo
Taj Mahal and I just performed on an Aretha Franklin tribute concert at Carnegie Hall. He sounded fantastic on that show and on this cut with Keb' Mo' — so funky!
Slipped, Tripped and Fell in Love , Southern Avenue
I just had the pleasure of performing on a show recently with this up and coming group from Memphis. This is their cover of one of my wife Ann Peebles’s songs.
At the Breaking Point , Zeshan B
This is a record with an amazing groove — and a cool story, too! You can tell this was recorded in Memphis. Great horns!
Movin' , Eli Paperboy Reed
This really takes me back to the early days of singing gospel in the '60s — such a vintage feel.
PrimeTime ft. Miguel, Janelle Monae
Wow, such powerful voices!
Friendship Is a Small Boat in a Storm , Chicano Batman
I really love this title. This has a perfect summertime feel — you’ve got to dig the background vocals.
The Bird, Anderson .Paak
Something about this really draws me in. His voice, the lyrics and production — a truly fantastic record.
Coming Home , Leon Bridges
This young man is great; it’s hard to believe this is a new record. This one really takes me back to my roots.