What Sounds Good Wednesday: Wayna (Urban/ Hip-Hop & Alternative Soul)
This post is long over due, I've been bumping Deborah Bond and this woman I'm about to introduce you to on De'Luni-Klectik (my iPod) ALL week. The woman I'm talking about is none other than the beautiful spirited Ethiopian-born, Wayna.
NOT that long ago Wayna would be the last person to come to mind regarding grammy nomination and musical success. She was a part of the Clinton White House administration in the 90's. But, anyone bound by a first love of music knows you can't escape it's beckoning.
Before I delve into this amazing woman's contributions to the world of music, I think it's ONLY appropriate I take a moment and acknowledge her influences. All to which she owes her refreshing, invigorating, cutting edge and versatile sound.
Her influences include; Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway, Simon & Garfunkel, Minnie Ripperton, Billie Holiday, and many more. If you listen closely those influences definitely come out VERY pronounced, especially the heavy ever-present Billie and Minnie undertones.
Wayna has two independent releases that are available for purchase;"Moments of Clairty: Book One"(2004), and her most recent project"Higher Ground"(2008). I highly recommend both. However, I do prefer "Higher Ground" for it's mature & experimental flow.
"Moments of Clarity: Book One"offers songs such as;"This Ol' Grudge", "Doubting Destiny"(which I happen to absolutely love),"Slurns of Paradise", and"Past Future Eternal". NOT only are the sounds pure and crisp, but the lyrics pull the heart strings.
If you're like me and loved "Moments of Clarity: Book One", you'll do more than appreciate "Higher Ground". This is a solid album; containing the type of music that got lost with the curse of the skip button. Simply press play, and get lost in the harmonies and sounds.
My absolute favorites from "Higher Ground" include; "Billy Club" Feat. Muhsinah (Listen here), and a Minnie remake "Lovin' You" (Listen here). Wayna's soft, but demanding voice has a unique sound that delivers power and naturally eloquent sound to every track it's on.
Wayna performing her remake of Minnie Ripperton's"Loving You"at Bohemian Caverns, DC. 04-23-08
Be sure to check outWayna's websiteandMusic Myspacefor show dates, the latest news and more information. I hope you fell in love. But, for those of you who need just a little more convincing, I hope the following makes a believer out of you. Until NEXT time...
Wayna performing "Billy Club" for African American Heritage Festival in Baltimore, Maryland 06-28-08
