(February 25, 2021) If you’ve been a SoulTracker for awhile, you’ve no doubt heard the music of Terisa Griffin. The talented Chicago singer and songwriter has won over fans among our readers over the past decade and a half for her keen sense of melody, her appreciation of timeless glamor, and, most of all, for that voice – a classic instrument that would have won over soul or jazz music fans of any era.
While she has mostly recorded her own compositions, Griffin has long been known as a song stylist, able to beautifully transform past gems like Marvin Gaye’s “Distant Lover” or my personal favorite, Aretha’s “Oh Me Oh My (I’m A Fool For You).” And, as she prepares a long-awaited new album that will be released later this year, Terisa has given us an early 2021 treat, with her cover of another Franklin gem.
“Angel” was a hit for Aretha in 1973, the kind of gently soulful ballad that helped create the template for the adult soul radio boom a decade later. Taking on such a familiar and influential gem takes confidence, and Griffin is simply brimming with confident personality in her brand new version of “Angel.” The single, which will be featured on a new multi-artist compilation on Platinum Vybe Recordings, is faithful to the original version but not reverential, as Griffin vamps and soars her way to a fresh, personal interpretation that feels just right.
This is great late time listening, and reminds us again of just how special a vocalist the Windy City has in its midst. Check out “Angel,” and welcome Terisa Griffin back to SoulTracks.
By Chris Rizik
Terisa Griffin – “Angel”