(July 3, 2026) It’s been more than two decades since fans heard new music from legendary Motown great Martha Reeves, but that wait ends on August 14 with the release of Searching. Just as surprising, the album is a New Orleans jazz-influenced project, the result of Reeves’ work with jazz trombonist Delfeayo Marsalis, part of the uber-talented Marsalis family (brother of Wynton and Branford).
Reeves, at 84 years old, is now considered musical royalty in her hometown of Detroit, and is one of Motown’s great remaining ambassadors. But she is also an historically great R&B vocalist, and fans will be excited for her to sing such jazz classics as “God Bless The Child” and “Summertime” alongside songs that touch on gospel or R&B.
Reeves has just released the first single from the new album, a cover of the Syreeta Wright/Stevie Wonder composition, “To Know You Is To Love You,” first recorded by Syreeta, but popularized by B.B. King in 1973, whose version hit the Soul top 20. The song certainly recalls the King version, but is given a stronger Southern Soul from producers Marsalis and Chris Roe, with a more forward beat and call-and-response vocals.
Reeves emits the emotions of the song nicely, and she is surrounded by an excellent band, bringing this classic song forward more than a half century. It is a nice preview of the upcoming album, and a welcome return of a longtime favorite. Check it out below.
By Chris Rizik
