Leon Bridges

I mean… come on. What we can we say about Leon Bridges that hasn’t already been said? If you’ve turned on the radio in the last 5 years, you’re perfectly aware of Bridges rocket-ship-ride from soul-indie powerhouse to household name. None of this is news. But - throughout it all, Bridges has maintained an artistic integrity, authenticity, and truth in his music and performance that really makes him a perfect example of what Black Tea is all about. There is a true beauty and blue in his vocals and songwriting that isn’t just evocative of classic soul and R&B - it’s playing on the same court with the other giants of the genre. Yet Bridges brings touches of the 21st century to each track. Contemporary beats and production choices has Bridges’ as one of the genre’s leaders; bringing it in the future while deeply respecting and celebrating it’s past. Bridge’s has always remained true to himself, from teaching himself guitar as a child, open mic nights in Fort Worth, Texas, to today and beyond.

This week, we’re featuring the track “Summer Rain” featuring ultra-powerhouse vocalist Jazmine Sullivan from the deluxe version of Bridges 2021 album Gold-Diggers Sound. A deceptively simple sounding tune at first, the track grows with each lyric into the soul anthem of the year. Starting off plaintively, with Bridges crooning the opening melody, a simple strumming guitar, all punctuated by a light tap on the piano. The track grows, featuring jazz-influenced harmonies, the beat becoming more intricate, and Sullivan absolutely tearing the roof off. Combining some subtle rock influences, contemporary production choices, and a pulsating beat, Bridges and Sullivan’s pitch perfect vocals make this intimate track feel grand and glorious.