The Will Downing 2016 SoulMusic.com Interview

Phone interview recorded July 25, 2016

The ‘Prince Of Sophisticated Soul,’ Mr. Will Downing has created a catalogue of great albums for close to thirty years. His latest release is certainly among his best ever: “Black Pearls” pays tribute to some of the legendary female singers who have been in some way a part of the New Yorker’s personal and musical journey including Phyllis Hyman, Deniece Williams, Brenda Russell, Chaka Khan, Jean Carne, Cherrelle, Angela Winbush, The Emotions, Randy Crawford and The Jones Girls.  It’s a brilliant tour-de-force set, receiving much deserved acclaim and response from music lovers who have come to know and love Will’s distinctive soulful sound.  David Nathan catches up with the ever-genial music man to talk about the album’s genesis and more…