From lead singer of the iconic
Gap Band to revered solo artist in his own right, with four decades of hard work and success in the music game under his belt R&B legend
Charlie Wilson still knows exactly how to
get the people going. His latest album,
Love, Charlie, was released at the top of the year but it is his constant touring and collaborations with contemporary hit-makers that keep him at the forefront; his
recent live TV performances with Kanye West serving undeniable reminders of Wilson's ever-impressive, soulful showmanship, in case you forgot.
In our recent interview, Charlie Wilson discusses staying relevant and inspired, working with Kanye, his admiration for
Rihanna and
Beyonce, and battling prostate cancer. Watch below.
Not many people know that Charlie Wilson is one my very favourite singers ever. He inspired early '90s R&B vocalists such as Aaron Hall and R. Kelly with his musical output from the '70s and '80s alongside his brothers in the magnificent Gap Band. Since the turn of the century, he has made appearances on music by The Neptunes, Snoop Dogg and most recently with Kanye West.
On the whole I have enjoyed his feature appearances. His album releases have unfortunately not impressed me half as much; Charlie, Last Name Wilson and Uncle Charlie haven’t touched me anywhere near his earlier output. I’m sorry to say, Just Charlie is a continuation of my yearning for a return to an Uncle Charlie that resembles his former self.