Anthony David
You can't talk about soul music's current mecca, Atlanta, Georgia, without
mentioning Anthony David. The Atlanta-based singer/songwriter, known as
"Tony" to his friends and "kinfolk," has become synonymous with Atlanta's
burgeoning music scene. Tony's new record, "Red Clay Chronicles" is sure
to convince folks around the globe what everyone in the ATL has known
for years. With it's head-nodding grooves, rich vocals, and authentic,
down-home vibe, "Red Clay Chronicles" epitomizes everything we love about
the music of the South.
The Savannah, Georgia native first made his mark musically as a songwriter,
penning songs for longtime friend and collaborator, India.Arie. Tony wrote
"Part of My Life" from India's 2001 debut "Acoustic Soul," and also wrote
"There's Hope" from her latest record, "Testimony: Volume 1, Life and
Relationship."
While Tony's 2004 debut, "3 Chords and the Truth" was a first-rate acoustic
record with equal parts soul, blues, and folk, "Red Clay Chronicles" is
definitely heavier on production, without overpowering Tony's full-bodied
voice and honest songwriting.
Since Tony's so versatile vocally on this record, he's sure to draw a
lot of comparisons to other notable singers. The most obvious similarity
is fellow Southern soul singer, Anthony Hamilton, which is particularly
evident on the feel-good family reunion tune, "Kinfolk." The stunning
duet with India.Arie, "Words," shows Tony sounding a little like Darius
Rucker from Hootie and the Blowfish, and the compelling title track, which
deals with the issue of gentrification, could easily be mistaken for a
Martin Luther song. Other highlights of the record include the cool breeze
tribute to Atlanta, "ATL Sunshine," the reflective ballad, "Lady," the
flawless cover of Level 42's "Something About You," and the ultimate head-nodder,
"Smoke One."
Tony spoke recently about his new record, making beautiful music with
India.Arie, and why he doesn't mind being compared to other great artists.
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