Sonja Grier – Soul Evolution
Bill Bradford has done it again. This writer/producer has laid down eight tracks of classic soul for song siren Sonja Grier, and the resulting CD, “Soul Evolution”, is an instant classic.
Sonja’s musical journey started in Charlotte, NC when she was singing on children’s television shows. Then she joined family members forming the “Charlotte Steel Drum Symphonettte”, sharing the stage with the late Ray Charles, The Temptations, and the O’jays.
Today, Sonja is employed by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg school system working as a hearing officer with juveniles with behavioral and emotional difficulties. But her passion is singing.
Sonja began recording for Bill Bradford’s Spirit Records doing background vocals. A lead demo quickly followed. Over the years she released singles aimed at the US club scene, but it was “Love Flight 109” that soared up the charts and garnered an RCA recording contract. Sonja reunited with Bill in 2003, and recorded and released “Right Here, Right Now” which became an underground hit on the UK soul and club scene. In 2008, the pair teamed up again, recorded three new tracks, and the “Soul Evolution” CD was born.
The CD starts off with the funky “Run For Cover” which has a late eighties/early nineties style. “Said I’m Sorry”, and “Been In The Storm Too Long” carry Philadelphia and Motown influences, both reminiscent of 60’s soul. “Reverse Evolution”, an environmental shout-out, is more like a funky 70’s sounding song mixed with rap with a rock influence. “Take Another Chance” and “Can’t Hold Back” return to the 60’s style.
“Right Here, Right Now”, is a smooth club hit that was big on the UK soul and club scene, and if you were to play this now in the UK it would be a hit again.
Sonja sings a variety of styles on this CD from the 60’s to the 90’s which is good because we need more variety in soul music. Her voice is strong, vibrant, and powerful with a rhythmic style that can’t be compared.
To hear sound samples, go to iTunes or CDBaby.
Marv D
The Urban Music Scene