challenging in that respect, but it’s also because he comes from that era of music that makes him very judgmental about these particular songs. The music on this record was very precious to him, so he was very judgmental on how I approached it. But it was good, because, in a way, it was a learning experience for me. It was awesome to be able to reinterpret those artists for our time today. It was exciting to again work with my dad for the first time since his 1994 recording of ‘Back in the Game,’ when I was still in my teens!”
“I went into the studio and I wanted to recreate something that was from his era and pay homage to the greats of that time,” says Syleena. She adds her personal flair to soul classics like Aretha Franklin’s “Chain of Fools” and Etta James’ “I’d Rather Go Blind,” as well as some of her father’s hits. The album’s third track, “We Did it,” is off Syl Johnson’s 1973 record Back for a Taste of Your Love. The song was co-written by Syleena’s mother, Brenda Johnson. Syleena remembers listening to the track as a child.
“A fiery, fierce, fighter, always standing for the pursuit of justice as it related to his music and sound, he will truly be missed by all who crossed his path,” continued the official family statement. “His catalog and legacy will be remembered as impeccable and a historical blueprint to all who experience it.”
“At this time, we ask for your prayers for our family, his friends, and fans, and we ask that you continue to play his music and share the remarkable legacy he’s made in music.”