(March 12, 2025) Hailing from Asbury Park, home to Bruce Springsteen, Alexander Simone — the second grandson of Nina Simone and son of Lisa Simone — is pushing through its music scene with a bevy of new tracks anchored by the sounds of his backing band, WHODAT? LIVE CREW. The heaviest of them all is the emotional performance of “What’s Love.” Smooth, neo-soul tapestry blissfully covers its rich canvas as its lounge-like “live” intimate sound gives off Blue Note jazz club vibes.
The song noticeably lifts the chorus of Tina Turner’s “What’s Love Got to Do With It” and dresses it up with reggae-tinged rhythms. Maybe a coincidence, but 2024 marked the 40th anniversary of Private Dancer, the best-selling magnum opus and triumphant ‘80’s comeback LP of Tina Turner that carried the aforementioned single. The milestone is being celebrated this year with a re-release and heavy box set repackaging.
Hearing the song reimagined into this soulful exercise feels a much-needed tribute and a special one coming from a vibrant singer of a younger generation. With vocals and serious belting reminiscent of Marvin Sapp and Jaheim, Simone heavily pours out his heart on this track, capturing the ear of the listener, while exuding enough pain to match the lyrical heartbreak. Having the DNA of the “High Priestess of Soul” doesn’t hurt what’s being presented.
Check out the track in this First Listen and let us know how much you love it.
By J Matthew Cobb
