After five decades in the music business, 28 studio albums, and an endless catalog of chart-topping hits, Will Downing—the iconic "Prince of Sophisticated Soul"—is set to release his latest offering, Luscious. Known for his rich baritone voice and timeless contributions to soul and R&B, Downing’s new project marks a bold new chapter in his illustrious career. Rather than sticking to a predetermined concept or format, Luscious is a deeply personal and intimate exploration of Downing’s artistry, built from the heart and driven by his pure love for music.
A New Era: Luscious and the Freedom to Express
For Downing, Luscious represents a newfound freedom. After decades of producing hits for the masses, he’s decided to focus on what feels right—what resonates with him emotionally. Luscious is less about following trends and more about crafting an album that reflects his personal musical journey, his feelings, and his love for his fans. The album is a six-song EP that taps into Downing’s influences and honors the tradition of the deep baritone crooners he admires, all while maintaining a fresh, contemporary sound.
As he puts it, “what comes next… I have to feel,” and Luscious is a testament to that philosophy. With each track, Downing offers a taste of something both familiar and new, capturing the essence of what made him a soul legend while pushing the boundaries of his own creativity. It’s clear that Luscious is a love letter to both his fans and to the music that has shaped his life.
The Power of Love – A Heartfelt Opening
The journey begins with the single “The Power of Love”, a track that is both a reminder and a celebration of the love we share with one another. While the title might sound familiar, this is not a cover of the classic hit by Huey Lewis & the News. Instead, Downing’s version offers an original take that showcases his ability to transform even the simplest themes into soulful, sophisticated expressions of emotion.
Collaborating once again with his long-time bandmate and guitarist Randy Bowland, Downing delivers a sweet, whisper-soft ballad that encapsulates the essence of love in a world that often feels chaotic. The track’s soothing harmonies provide a peaceful retreat, with Downing’s baritone taking center stage as he delivers every lyric with tender care. It’s a song that invites you to slow down, breathe, and appreciate the healing power of love.
Paying Tribute to Two Soul Legends: Jon Lucien and Johnny Hartman
As a member of the small but mighty fraternity of deep baritone crooners, Downing has always been conscious of those who came before him. For Luscious, he chose to honor two of his greatest influences: Jon Lucien and Johnny Hartman.
Jon Lucien, the British Virgin Island soul legend, is remembered for his smooth voice and poignant contributions to the world of smooth R&B. On Luscious, Downing reimagines Lucien’s classic 1973 track “Rashida”, delivering a version that will surely make Lucien smile from above. With the sweet saxophone work of Marion Meadows adding texture, Downing takes the listener on a soulful journey, milking each note for passion and emotion, much like the original, while adding his own personal touch to the timeless track.
Similarly, Downing’s cover of the classic jazz standard “In the Wee Small Hours (of the Morning)” calls to mind the work of Johnny Hartman, particularly his iconic collaborations with John Coltrane. With lush string arrangements leading into a smoky jazz quartet setting, Downing channels Hartman’s emotional depth, particularly through the smooth interplay between his voice and the saxophone work of Tim Cunningham, who channels the spirit of Coltrane. This is not Downing’s first homage to Hartman, having previously paid tribute to him with a stunning rendition of “My One and Only Love” on his 2019 album Romantique, Pt. 1. On Luscious, Downing once again dives deep into crooner mode, showcasing the versatility and range of his baritone voice.
The Heartfelt Forever More and the Funky Sugar on the Floor
Other standout tracks on Luscious include “Forever More”, a beautiful ballad with roots in the 1995 supergroup Urban Knights. Written by Downing’s bandmate Mike Logan, Sr., the track is a smooth, soulful journey about a heartbroken man trying to make things right. Downing’s delivery is a masterclass in emotional vulnerability, with the harmonica bridge, courtesy of Howard Levy, adding a sweet touch of nostalgia.
Meanwhile, Luscious takes an unexpected turn with the funky and upbeat “Sugar on the Floor”. Originally written in the mid-‘70s by Kiki Dee and covered by a range of artists from Elton John to Etta James, Downing’s version brings a fresh take on the classic. The song’s metaphor is open to interpretation, but its underlying theme of love and tenderness shines through in Downing’s interpretation. The song is a reminder of the joy that comes with surrendering to love, and Downing’s heartfelt delivery makes it a standout track.
Reinventing a Dance Classic: Mama Used to Say
Perhaps the most daring track on Luscious is “Mama Used to Say”, a re-imagining of the 1980s dance anthem by Junior. Partnering with keyboardist and entrepreneur Marcus Johnson, Downing takes the upbeat classic and slows it down into a soulful groove that adds depth and wisdom to the original. This version of the song is a reflection on the timeless advice mothers give to their children, offering a sense of reflection and reverence for the guidance passed down through generations. The track is a beautifully nuanced expression of Downing’s musical freedom, showing that even familiar tunes can be redefined when placed in the hands of a true artist.
Luscious as a Love Story
Ultimately, Luscious is a love story. It is the love that Will Downing has for his music, his fans, and the deep baritone tradition that has shaped his career. With this new release, Downing proves that he is still at the top of his game, making music that he truly believes in. The album is a triumph of expression, filled with heart, soul, and passion. As Downing himself puts it, if you listen closely, you will not just “hear” the music, but you will “feel” it.
Luscious is now available, and it is undoubtedly one of Will Downing’s finest works to date—a true masterpiece that showcases his enduring love for soul music, his artistry, and his legacy as one of the greatest baritone crooners of all time.
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