(December 3, 2020) Elijah Baker, Carl Wheeler, Amar Khalil, Jubu Smith and producer Antron Haile played an integral role in shaping the sound of Tony Toni Toné’s 1988 debut album, Who? Although they weren’t part of the face of the band, their musical contributions helped to define the forward-thinking, retro-smart brand of soul that would bring Raphael Saadiq, Dwayne Wiggins, and Timothy Christian Riley international acclaim over the following decade.
The band is moving out of the shadows for its first single release as 3TOB (Tony Toni Toné Original Band), “Never Gonna Give You Up.” An engaging track permeated with melodic vibes reminiscent of TTT’s “ “It Never Rains in Southern California” and “Whatever You Want,” the new tune has a distinctive synth-soul sound that is fittingly both old-school and futuristic in essence. Gently persuasive vocals are paired with amorous lyrical passages for a listening experience that’s easily enjoyed in a chill moment or as a slow jam to set the mood.
Take a First Listen to 3TOB’s “Never Gonna Give You Up” here, and let us know if it hits the spot!
