(February 18, 2020) His roots are firmly rooted in gospel playing in his father’s church, and performing with other family members who shared the stage with quartet legends such as The Canton Spirituals and The Mighty Clouds of Joy. But as one of many accomplished musicians who have quietly built a name for themselves, Steve Ray Ladson loves any genre that affords him opportunity to flex his entertaining vocals and multi-instrumental skills. When not touring with other groups, Ladson finds studio time to showcase his solo talents. His 2016 single, “Keep Pushin’” dropped blazin’ contemporary country blues, very similar to his work with Robert Randolph and the Family Band. Ladson’s affinity for R&B also resonated on the 1974 mid-seventies’ classic from William DeVaughn, “Be Thankful For What You Got.”
For the SoulTracks World Premiere of “Do You Know” (Kuntry Boy Music Group), Ladson dives into an old school R&B/pop tale of that that warm feeling inside in discovering a forever love: “Don’t be ashamed to say I love you/Don’t be ashamed to say you care.” Ladson utilizes more of his inviting falsetto along with delightful female backing vocals on the hooks. And the instrumental from his backing group, The Ray Band, provides a warm setting that never overpowers this sweet, soul soundtrack. And the associated video accentuates this song beautifully.
Ladson tells us about the song: “It simply asks a question. Do you know how it feels when you’ve found something real and you love someone. A lot of people don’t realize what it’s like to have real love or someone who genuinely cares about them. Despite what occurs in their relationship. It’s universal not only for lovers but friends as well.”
We heartily welcome Steve Ray Ladson to SoulTracks. Check out “Do You Know.”
By Peggy Oliver
World Premiere!
Steve Ray Ladson – “Do You Know”
