Reggie Braxton Brings Motown Flavor to Erykah Badu's Classic with 'Next Lifetime' Cover

The Soulful Sound of Reggie Braxton

In the heart of Detroit, known as the Motor City and the birthplace of Motown, a new artist is set to make waves with his unique style that merges R&B with the old-school charm of jazz. Reggie Braxton, a skilled pianist, singer, songwriter, and producer, has recently released his debut album, 'The Brax-Tone Experience', which features a velvety cover of Erykah Badu's soulful track 'Next Lifetime.' This homage to a beloved classic brings a touch of fresh elegance to the familiar sound, encapsulating the warmth and sensuality that is a hallmark of Braxton's music.

Having a lineage steeped in musical history, Braxton's passion for music is almost ingrained in his DNA. With a grandmother who sang the blues and a cousin who was a member of the legendary Motown group, The Temptations, it’s no surprise that Braxton has cultivated his musical talent into something extraordinary. His debut album is both a personal project and a love letter to the music that shaped him, blending R&B and jazz into a recording that feels both nostalgic and novel.

The production credits for 'The Brax-Tone Experience' read like a who's who of talented musicians, featuring contributions from Detroit's very own J. Poww, alongside Grammy-nominated Chris 'Buddaflywolf' Bivens, known for his work with contemporary artists such as Chris Brown and Kehlani. Engineering was handled by the highly respected Jezreel Santos, adding layers of sophistication and depth to the production, reminiscent of artists like Kem and Gregory Porter.

Welcome to an atmosphere where amber lights and soft candlelight set the mood for an intimate listening experience. This album is designed for moments of romance and quiet reflection, providing a perfect soundtrack for evenings shared with a loved one. Braxton's interpretation of 'Next Lifetime' is a perfect introduction to an album that invites listeners to indulge in heartfelt melodies and soothing harmonies.

Beyond his notable cover of 'Next Lifetime,' the album presents a mix of original compositions and classic covers. Tracks such as Michael Franks' 'Lady Wants to Know' and Toto's 'Georgy Porgy' blend seamlessly alongside Braxton's original songs, including 'Just Like You' and 'I Pray It's You.' The latter is a particular source of pride for Braxton, currently making waves on the Billboard Jazz charts. Another single, 'Love Guarantee,' has also seen success on the MediaBase music charts, peaking at position 39.

Describing his sound, Braxton says, "'The Brax-Tone Experience' is my unique blend of R&B and jazz. I want my interpretations and the stories I tell to reflect my musical heritage, with a sound that's distinctly my own." This dedication to authenticity is rooted in his upbringing, surrounded by the rhythms and melodies that fill Detroit's vibrant music scene.

Braxton has honed his craft among some of Detroit's celebrated musicians, including the late guitarist Calvin Brooks and saxophonists Bobby Barnes and Miller Brisker. His vocals are influenced by a range of iconic artists, from Luther Vandross to Nat King Cole, blending the smooth tones of R&B with the improvisational flair of jazz.

Reflecting on his journey, Braxton shares, "Being raised in Detroit and having a cousin in The Temptations was major for me. Melvin's influence taught me to embrace my unique voice amid a sea of tenors." His experience and confidence allow him to channel his heritage and personal experiences into captivating music.

As the lights dim and curiosity piques, Braxton's 'The Brax-Tone Experience' stands as a tribute to his roots and aspirations, forming a bridge between past legends and future possibilities. Whether you're a lifelong R&B fan or new to the genre, Braxton’s rich sound invites you to savor every note and lyric.

Listen to 'The Brax-Tone Experience' now on your favorite streaming platform and follow Reggie Braxton's musical journey on Instagram and YouTube for more updates.