In case your musical taste buds have been asleep the last few years, now is the time to take notice as to why the industry’s been buzzing with the news of PJ Morton and his brand new project entitled “Walk Alone” released on Tuesday. Filled with a soulful sound reminiscent of a new-aged Stevie Wonder, Morton is a musical prodigy, a rising star in his own right and it’s just the right time for you to get better acquainted with the New Orleans native.
Unfamiliar with this preacher’s kid? Maybe you know his parents better. Gospel legend Bishop Paul S. Morton, Sr. and his wife Pastor Debra B. Morton are known across the globe not only for their impact and ministry within the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship, but also for their triumphant story birthed out of the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Greater St. Stephen Full Gospel Baptist, the very church PJ Morton was raised in down south, was split into a tale of two cities with locations now in both New Orleans, LA and Atlanta, GA.
As expected, PJ’s got the whole southern soul, churchy vibe down to a science, but don’t think of him as a gospel vocalist. Instead the pianist and well-known songwriter who honed his craft in church has been attempting to spread his message beyond the church-singer-turned-soul star moniker since Emotions, PJ’s independently released debut circa 2005. If you listen closely, he’s ultimately more concerned with creating what he says is “feel good music that lyrically tells stories about life and love…music that makes your heart think.” Morton – who’s written songs for artists like Erykah Badu, Monica and India.Arie, with whom he won a Grammy Award in 2003 – also wrote and produced all but two of the tracks on “Walk Alone.”
Currently holding the “CD of the Month” spot on SoulTracks.com, PJ Morton is stealing the hearts of soul music fans across the nation once again with elements of jazz, soul, folk and R&B. There aren’t too many singer/songwriters left in the game who’s skill and sheer talent are respected and appreciated. These days artists like PJ Morton are more of a rare breed and a cherished gem to those willing to get into his music. With a total of five albums under his belt, PJ Morton’s latest offering is a collection of 10 engaging near-perfect tunes that truly pack an innovative punch like an extended jam session. Seeing him do his thing live onstage on heightens the PJ Morton experience. Check out the photo gallery below as you sample some of PJ’s new music online.
He’ll make you think, he’ll make you cry, he’ll make you nod your head and he’ll even make you want to get up and dance. Fused with funky live instrumentation on the new set of soulful tracks, PJ Morton’s “Walk Alone” is definitely a welcomed addition to you collection of great music. There’s something for everyone no matter what end of the soul/gospel spectrum you listen to – even a bit of reggae as featured on “Love You More” with singer Tweet. PJ Morton possesses a refreshing sound that is equal parts vibrant and colorful and entirely pleasing to the ear.
For more information on PJ Morton or to listen to his catalog of music, visit his website at www.pjmortononline.com. Stay connected to the soul star by following him on Twitter at Twitter.com/ThePJMorton.
