Prince ‘BlkMagic’ Damons

Soul music has been on the comeback trail for some time now. No, Otis Redding, Diana Ross and Aretha Franklin haven’t put out new records, but new lineups of soulful artists have emerged. John Legend, Corinne Bailey Rae and Lyfe Jennings are just a few sipping from the purifying spring waters of legendary soul music. To many, the next generation of soul is fresh and unique yet strikingly familiar to the classic tunes of yesterday. The obvious similarities forces one to pose the question - have today’s artists really improved soul music or are they simply remixing the same tunes we’ve already heard? Let’s delve further into the subject with comparisons of current artists and some of the old school legends.

Robin Thicke vs. Marvin Gaye

Son of TV dad Alan Thicke, Robin Thicke is compared to many vocalists but none more so than Marvin Gaye. Female fans will tell you that his voice is pure bliss, a soulful sound that gracefully reaches out to the masses and accentuates the late night mood. Marvin had a similar aura about him, a versatility that allowed him to stroke the hearts of lovers with “Sexual Healing” and bring a divided nation together with “What’s Going On”. Though Robin is a relative newcomer, some have already deemed him as the new king of soul.

Anthony Hamilton vs. Sam Cooke

With his remake of the classic “A Change is Gonna Come,” it is no surprise that Anthony Hamilton is often paired up with Sam Cooke. Cooke wrote the song during the Civil Rights movement, a very sensitive time in America. The track has been covered by everyone from Bob Dylan and Al Green to Aretha Franklin and Leela James. Anthony Hamilton did a fine job adding his name to the list, complimenting the timeless classic with the majestic voice that turns everything he sings into gold.

Beyonce vs. Tina Turner

After honoring the legendary diva at the 2008 Grammy Awards, the comparisons between Beyonce’ and Tina Turner were bound to surface. No one rocked the stage with as much energy and emotion as Tina - until Beyonce’ that is. With the release of her multi-platinum selling album, Dangerously in Love, Beyonce’ stood out from her Destiny’s Child counterparts and established herself as one of the most alluring figures in the music industry. The passion, intensity and sex appeal of these ladies certainly warrants a comparison.

Prince Damons vs. Quincy Jones

With diversity that enables him to perfect genres ranging from hip hop to every element of soul, Princes Damons is being put in the league of renowned producer, Quincy Jones. Jones is perhaps best known for his work on Michael Jackson’s Thriller but has produced for artists that range from Sammy Davis Jr. and Frank Sinatra to Miles Davis and Barry White. Likewise, Prince Damons’ mesmerizing sound has complimented industry standouts that include E-40, Too Short, Lenny Williams, Goapele and a host of others.

Whether it’s Kobe vs. Jordan or the Lakers vs. Celtics, comparisons always make for intriguing conversation. When it comes to soul music however, things are a bit different. Most artists long for individuality and would prefer not to be compared to anyone. This is quite understandable as the soul artists referenced in this article have a dynamic appeal that places them in a league of their own.