He is one of the most awarded artists in the history of the SoulTracks Readers’ Choice Awards, and so it is a big deal every time we hear new music from the great Will Downing. With an almost unheard of 30 year career and twenty solo recordings as proof, it stands to reason music fans are nowhere near ready to vote Will Downing off the proverbial “island” where he continues to reign as the Prince of Sophisticated Soul. Downing’s voice is one of the most distinctive, loved and instantly recognizable voices in R&B.
Will brings all that and more to his brand new release, Soul Survivor. A tasty combination of original songs, like his hit duet with Avery*Sunshine, “Feeling The Love,” as well as nicely curated covers, Soul Survivor is again, Will Downing at his best.
The key to Will’s longevity is his clear vision: “I started my music career in the early 80s with, in some ways, more talented artists who had better management and connections and who were willing to do whatever it took to make it. People often asked me why I wouldn’t conform to the music of the time and I would reply that I knew my strengths musically. I stuck to my convictions, while I saw a lot of artists come and go through the years. In an industry that is youth driven I consider myself blessed to still be relevant, still in the race and one of the few Soul Survivors of my era.”
We are proud to present Soul Survivor as our newest SoulTracks Listening Room. Check it out below and enjoy this master at work.
Will Downing – Soul Survivor
