(December 29, 2016) Flint, Michigan-born/Los Angeles-raised Kipper Jones may only have one solo album to his credit, but his history as a performer, songwriter, and producer runs deep through the past three decades of R&B music. His songwriting resume includes memorable ‘80s and ‘90s soul jams such as Vanessa Williams’ “The Right Stuff,” Brandy’s “Brokenhearted,” and Silk’s “Hooked on You,” and he showcased his vibrant vocal skills over the course of three strong, but minimally promoted, LP’s by funk outfit Tease (“Firestarter,” “I Can’t Stand the Rain”).
Lately, Kipper’s been sorting through his vault of unreleased gems for a series of EP’s aptly titled The Basement Files. Kicking off volume two of the series, he offers a mellowly enticing head-nodder entitled “Hey You.” Backed by suave horn punctuations, assuaging keyboard fills, and a firm rhythm track, his plush reading of the sunny, assuring lyrics moves calmly as a gentle spring breeze. With sensitive but pointed harmonies complementing his engaging tenor lead, he captures the feel of vintage Isley slow-jams with a little bit of classic Luther in the mix. Take a First Listen to the track below and let us know your thoughts!
by Justin Kantor