Dames Brown Celebrate Detroit’s Legacy and Soulful Future on Debut Album Take Me As I Am

After years of establishing themselves as one of Detroit’s most captivating vocal groups, Dames Brown have finally delivered their long-awaited debut album, Take Me As I Am. More than a collection of songs, the record serves as a heartfelt tribute to the city that shaped them, the musical traditions that inspire them, and the late Amp Fiddler, whose mentorship and creative guidance helped bring the project to life.

Recorded at Amp Fiddler’s legendary home studio, Take Me As I Am captures the essence of Detroit through a vibrant blend of soul, house, funk, techno, and classic 1970s groove. Rich instrumentation, gospel-inspired harmonies, and deeply emotional performances combine to create an album that feels both timeless and unmistakably rooted in the Motor City’s musical heritage.

For Dames Brown—Athena Johnson, Teresa Marbury, and LaRae Starr—the album represents the culmination of years spent refining their sound and building a reputation as one of Detroit’s most dynamic vocal collectives. Across fourteen tracks, the trio channels influences ranging from Motown and Parliament-Funkadelic to the enduring power of Aretha Franklin, crafting a sound that honors the past while embracing the future.

The album's emotional core is strengthened by the presence of Amp Fiddler, whose contributions appear throughout the project. His spirit and artistry are woven into the record, making Take Me As I Am as much a celebration of his legacy as it is a statement of the trio’s artistic identity.

Adding to the album’s Detroit pedigree are collaborations with some of the city’s most influential musical figures. House music pioneer Andrés joins the group on “What Would You Do?”, while producer Waajeed lends his touch to the uplifting “Glory.” Techno legend Eddie Fowlkes appears on “Do It,” further reinforcing the album’s connection to Detroit’s rich and diverse musical landscape.

Among the standout moments are the infectious “You’re The One For Me,” the inspiring “Glory,” and the emotionally resonant “What Would You Do?” Each track showcases the trio’s remarkable chemistry, powerful vocal interplay, and ability to seamlessly move between genres while maintaining a cohesive artistic vision.

The album opens with “Introducing Dames Brown,” featuring Amp Fiddler, setting the stage for a journey through groove, soul, and celebration. Tracks such as “Take Me As I Am,” “What Up Doe,” and “Provider” embody the warmth and authenticity that define the project, while songs like “Sweat” and “Why You Got Me Crazy (Walk Away)” reveal the group’s versatility and contemporary edge.

Although this marks their first full-length release, Dames Brown are far from newcomers. Over the past decade, they have built an impressive catalog through releases on Defected Records and its affiliated labels, collaborating with artists including Sophie Lloyd, The Vision, Floorplan, and Horse Meat Disco. Those experiences helped shape the confidence and maturity evident throughout Take Me As I Am.

What makes the album particularly compelling is its sense of purpose. Every song feels connected to a larger narrative about community, resilience, and artistic heritage. Detroit has always been a city where musical innovation emerges from deep cultural roots, and Dames Brown carry that tradition forward with authenticity and passion.

At its heart, Take Me As I Am is an album about acceptance, gratitude, and connection. It celebrates the people who came before, honors the city that continues to inspire generations of musicians, and firmly establishes Dames Brown as one of the leading voices in modern soul music.

With its combination of heartfelt songwriting, powerful vocals, and world-class collaborations, Take Me As I Am stands as both a fitting tribute to Amp Fiddler and a triumphant debut from a group whose time has truly arrived.

Track Listing

Side A

1. Introducing Dames Brown (with Amp Fiddler)
2. What Would You Do? (ft. Andrés & Amp Fiddler)
3. You're The One For Me

Side B

1. Glory (ft. Waajeed)
2. Take Me As I Am (with Amp Fiddler)
3. What Up Doe (with Amp Fiddler)
4. Do It (with Eddie Fowlkes)

Side C

1. Who Do You (Think You Are)? (with Amp Fiddler)
2. Provider (with Amp Fiddler)
3. Introducing Pt. II (Dirty Hips) (with Amp Fiddler)
4. Sweat

Side D

1. This Time (with Amp Fiddler)
2. Why You Got Me Crazy (Walk Away) (with Amp Fiddler)
3. Ova (with Amp Fiddler)

Take Me As I Am is available now.