Check out and download 5 free songs this week. We start with a little R&B from The James Hunter Six. If you love Cut Chemist, we’ve got early access to a song from their forthcoming album. Sampa The Great draws her songs from experiences in different countries. Nabihah Iqbal makes music from a British-Asian perspective. Lastly, talented singer/songwriter Rodney Crowell pays tribute to the legendary Elmore James, on the eve of what would have been his 100th birthday.
Monday, January 22 The James Hunter Six “I Got Eyes”
Rhythm and soul singer James Hunter teams up with Daptone Records co-f0under and producer Bosco Mann for The James Hunter Six’s forthcoming album. The 10 original songs were recorded at the label’s prestigious studios. “I Got Eyes” has it all: back-up singers, horns, and James Hunter hitting the high notes!
Tuesday, January 23 Cut Chemist “Rhythm Method” featuring Myka 9.
We can’t wait for Cut Chemist to drop a new album in March. This long-awaited recording features several invited guests including: Tune-Yards and Biz Markie. KCRW listeners have early access to listen and download “Rhythm Method” featuring Myka 9.
Wednesday, January 24 Sampa The Great “Flowers”
Sampa The Great’s deeply personal recording is fully influenced by her background. She was born in Zambia, raised in Botswana, and just four years ago relocated to Australia. It was there that she honed her idea of what she wanted to create. The perfect foil for the self-aware and spiritually minded track is “Flowers.”
Thursday, January 25 Nabihah Iqbal “Eden Piece”
FKA as Throwing Shade, Nabihah Iqbal ditched her moniker in favor of her given name in order to stand proudly as a British-Asian artist. On Iqbal’s first long-player she approached the sessions with an open mind recording all of the instruments herself, as well as writing the lyrics. “Eden Piece” is a standout track that you’ll hear on our music shows.
Friday, January 26 Rodney Crowell covering Elmore James “Shake Your Money Maker”
Elmore James was bestowed the title “King of the Slide Guitar” and his legacy influenced hundreds of artists. On the 100th anniversary of his birthday an array of musicians come together to honor his sound with his classic blues standards. Tom Jones, ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons, and Betty LaVette all pitch in; but it’s Rodney Crowell who takes the challenge to cover “Shake Your Money Maker.”