Mark our words. When the nominations for next Februarys Grammy Awards are revealed later this year, Leon Bridges will be included among the nominees short-listed for Best New Artist. And the team here at soulhead is willing to bet the cash in our wallets that Bridges ascends to the stage on the evening of February 15th to accept the honor.
High expectations and praise for the fledgling Fort Worth, TX based talent who signed his first major label deal with Columbia Records just seven months ago. But in Bridges case, the kudos are unequivocally warranted. Unavoidable vintage soul tags and Sam Cooke comparisons notwithstanding, the exceptionally gifted vocalist and guitarist has already carved out a unique musical identity, owing to the irresistible charm and grace of his sublime vocal stylings.
Momentum behind Bridges debut LP Coming Home (due June 23rd) has been steadily building thanks to the previously unveiled title track and Better Man. And the magnificently crafted midtempo swing of latest single Smooth Sailin ups the anticipation ante even further. Bridges pleads Honey, I wont wear you down across the songs chorus, and we suspect that youll have no choice but to wear out your headphones listening to this stellar track on repeat.
But dont take our word for it. Check out the brand new video for Smooth Sailin below, and be sure to pick up Coming Home when it drops two weeks from today.
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