(January 26, 2023) The music that Larry ‘Larry D’ Dodson sang is a major part of the soundtrack of any soul music lover. Dodson had us shaking our rumps to the funk as the lead singer of the legendary Bar-Kays. The Bar-Kays called Memphis their home, so Dodson knows a lot about the blues and Southern Soul Music.
Dodson showcases those Southern Soul chops on the party anthem “Mr. Harmonica Man.” While his turn to the Southern Soul side of things might come as a shock to some, those Memphis roots shine through on this fun and funky number that showcases the blues harp talents of Damion Kereem ‘Yella P’Pearson, who is the “Mr. Harmonica Man” referred to in the song’s title.
Yella P is a revelation. Here is an artist born and raised into the hip-hop era and he looks the part. Yet, when he puts that harmonica to his lips, he’s more Little Walter than Lil’ Baby. Yella P is also a native of Memphis and the history of that city’s music comes through his harmonica playing. Dodson gritty voice brings out the fun that is heard in this song as he moves seamlessly from funk to Southern Soul. Check out the song and video for “Mr. Harmonica Man” here.
By Howard Dukes
Larry D – “Mr. Harmonica Man”
