 Possessing one of the most distinctive voices in modern music history, renowned composer and multi-instrumentalist Charles Wright’s moniker on the international music landscape is as deep as the Grand Canyon and is a true barometer for timeless music for future generations.
From a precocious youngster growing up in rural Mississippi to an avant-garde recording artist, Charles Wright’s contributions to funk, R&B, and pop music are incalculable. The sheer intensity of his soul and peerless vocal timbre are expressed through his endless classics and on his latest 15-track release Finally Got It Wright.
A restless audience is inspired just listening to the explosive baseline on “Express Yourself,” his 1971 marquee hit. And for the incurable romantics, his 1968 classic “Loveland” is the anthem that keeps lovers floating on a natural high.
Charles’ career began when he left his A&R post at Delphi Records and started the band Charles Wright and the Wright Sounds. The group then exploded onto the LA nightclub scene with a unique sound that grabbed the attention of industry movers-and-shakers.
Charles’ innovative virtuosity on guitar was constantly showcased in LA recording studios. He quickly became one of LA’s most sought after session musicians, backing up the likes of Bill Cosby. This association led to the band’s 1967 deal with Warner Bros. Records as The Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band. The band became the label’s first successful R&B group.
It would take a city library to list all of Charles’ compositions, but the following are a few more notable hits from the band’s earlier days: “Do Your Thing,” “Spreading Honey,” “Your Love” (means everything to me), and “Till You Get Enough.”
Jessie Belvin, a songwriter and superb singer who set the tone for many aspiring LA artists, greatly influenced Charles’ illustrious career. Belvin mentored the fledgling artist and supplied him with tools for success, and Charles listened like an honor student.
Charles’ music has touched a chord with nearly everyone: Companies such as Chrysler, Nike, Hanes, and Burger King use “Express Yourself” to advertise their products. And TV, radio, film, and sports franchises borrow “Express Yourself” to promote their many events. Television shows like I Hate Chris and American Idol Rewind have anxiously showcased the tune to millions.
Charles’ latest CD on A Million $ Worth of Memories Records label, Finally Got It Wright, is a musical smorgasbord of new and classic numbers and a few surprises. Charles Wright’s mark on music history and the rich legacy that he established is one that is time-tested and is one that will flourish indefinitely.
By Phil Brown
More information:
Charles Wright on Facebook
Charles Wright's Official Site
Charles Wright on MySpace
Charles Wright on YouTube
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