Jonathan P. Baird

Sometimes music is the only thing that can make you feel better. The last election was a downer of major proportions. I am writing to recommend a listen to John Legend and the Roots new album “Wake Up”. It made me feel better.

There are times when music can capture a period.  This album is like that. The first song Hard Times could not be more timely. While the album is almost entirely a collection of covers, Wake Up is anything but outdated, boring or rehash. I have enjoyed repeat listening. It is addictive.

I should say that I have been a John Legend fan since his first album “Get Lifted”. I loved a number of the songs on that album. It Don’t have to Change evoked love of family and his roots. Stay With You is a very romantic, melodic song. I also liked Alright which shows Legend’s bad boy side.

The new album features some classics. The title track Wake Up Everybody is the great Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes song. Legend and the Roots do it justice. Legend also sings Ghetto Boy, the song made famous by the late great Donny Hathaway. I could not imagine that Legend and the Roots could get close to the Hathaway version but I have to say it is worthy.

I want to mention Shine, the only new song on the album. Hard not to love that song too. So positive and for the people.

Go out and get the CD. You will not be disappointed.