(July 20, 2026) The song “All We Need” is my introduction to New Zealand soul singer Louis Baker. The tune had me dancing in my seat when I heard electric organ’s church inspired soul dancing in between a bass line that took me back to Detroit.
I had to learn more about this singer from the land of the Kiwi bird, so I listened to his two earlier albums Open and Love Levitates, and they are both rather good. Baker grew up listening to the classic soul of singers like Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield, and Michael Jackson, proving once again the soul music is America’s greatest export. Baker proved to be an apt student of the craft on songwriting and at 17 he was a finalist in a national songwriting competition.
Baker displays his songwriter prowess on “All We Need” – a song that puts him in the Mayfield vibe of inspirational gospel infused soul. The lyrics carry a spiritual and earthy message for people who feel set adrift in these crazy times. He sings of being brought to his knees by disbelief but then reminds the lister that they are never alone. Even in those times when they are about to give up, somebody has your back. That’s all you need to know and that’s all you need. Check out Louis Baker’s upbeat and inspirational song here.
By Howard Dukes
