In Darrell Kelley’s bio (below) he recommends to the listener, “leave your preconceptions and baggage behind.” It is good advice. I was not sure what to expect when I first queued up his new video, “Beautiful.” Kelley is a restaurateur, a minister, and an author. I wondered what kind of music this guy was going to make.
As it turns out, this self proclaimed “renaissance man” makes some pretty cool slow jam R&B dance music.
What first hooked me on this track was that beat. A below-the-basement kick drum thumps out a slow rhythm while a Carribean-inspired drum machine drops robotic island sounds. Backbeat and Jazzy synth chords interject themselves between the beats. It is a great groove that feels like a slowed down Jungle House jam.
Through the verse Darrell sings a laid back narrative about a beautiful woman he sees at the club. It is the right vibe for the beat. However, the chorus is my favorite part.
The lyrics are simple, “You’re beautiful, i wanna know your name. Can we talk on the dance floor?” However, the lilting melody and low, subdued vocal harmonies stick to your eardrums.
The video features the dapper reverend wearing a couple of fabulous suits and dancing with a series of gorgeous women. Which is exactly as it should be.
Check out the video for “Beautiful” and follow the links below for more Darrell Kelley.
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Here is what Darrell says about Darrell…
Leave your preconceptions and baggage behind and come aboard to take a spiritual journey with Darrell Kelley and his music.
Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Darrell Kelley is a man for all seasons. Labels like musician, spiritual leader, author and entrepreneur only scratch the surface of the deep well of talents Darrell possesses. Relocating to the great state of Georgia he founded the legendary Soul Delicious Grill and Buffet restaurant where bountiful plates of delectably prepared meals are accompanied by the sweet sounds of R&B and Gospel music. His book “The Book of UWGEAM” is a summary of how through love, unity and respect a better way of life is accessible to all. Mr. Kelley also serves as the Pastor of The Pathway Gospel Ministry Church. Yet, he still finds time to create, perform and record great music. Darrell Kelley is the epitome of a renaissance man.
“Storm Is Coming” is his four song contemporary Gospel/R&B debut EP that pretty much acts as the linchpin this multitalented man employs to connect the dots of the multitude of activities not only going on in his own life, but the world he sees and experiences around him. So, leave your preconceptions and baggage behind and come aboard to take a soulful ride with Darrell Kelley and the music he so generously shares with us on “Storm Is Coming”. Even in a storm, he who is prepared has won half the battle, and will weather what may come…