Three years in the making, Cornell 'C.C.' Carter's latest album, "Expressions of Soul," is a compelling 74-minute journey, showcasing the San Franciscan soulman’s most profound and personal work to date.
The album includes the recent hit single "Everyday," last year's chart-topping "Sometimes," and an exceptional cover of Marvin Gaye's classic "Come Get To This." The majority of the album was recorded and co-produced in Northern California with longtime collaborator Kirk Crumpler. This time, Cornell. also collaborated with other notable talents: the infectious soul dancer "Holding Back," produced by the UK's Julian Jonah; the beautiful Bobby Womack-esque ballad "Are You Alone," co-written with guitarist Dave Shul; and "Wait On You," featuring contributions from rising Bay Area musicians D’Mauriae Harris and Adam Bailey. C.C. describes this album as the one that most authentically reflects his inner self.
“Three years between albums is quite a long time for me, but I had a whole story to tell,” says Cornell. “This album is like a book; the sequence is important, starting with 'Changes' and ending with 'Have We Moved.' We planned it so you need to listen all the way through. We wrote many songs for this album, and some didn’t make it; others evolved along the way to fit the direction."
Cornell prides himself on being an honest writer, reflecting his life and the world around him. “I learned from the greats like Curtis Mayfield who told it like it was. That's why I admire artists like Common and KRS-One—they speak the truth. Writing honestly lets me sleep at night, knowing I said what I saw. If you write with authenticity, it will resonate.”
Cornell's journey to finding his own voice began in the West, inspired by his brother who "sang like Eddie Kendricks." He honed his skills in local cover bands and even auditioned for The Temptations. “Versatility was key back then,” C.C. recalls. “Ray Charles could sing like anyone because he thought that’s what people wanted. I learned to mimic many artists, but writing my own songs helped me find my true voice.”
On tracks he didn't write, Cornell. enjoys channeling his influences. For example, on "Holding Back," he drew inspiration from Ollie Woodson of The Temptations. “When Julian sent me the initial track, I could only hear Ollie Woodson on it. So, I embraced that and brought it to life.”
His cover of Marvin Gaye's "Come Get To This" was a project three years in the making. “I wanted to honor Marvin’s original. Narada [Michael Walden] advised me to respect the original and not try to improve it. Hopefully, listeners will feel that I did it justice.”
Cornell. is particularly proud of the album’s closing track, "Have We Moved," which reflects his view of the world today. “It’s a truthful statement about our lack of progress. We treat each other poorly, lack genuine communication, and there’s no real equality. Soul music should convey a message and make you feel something. On this album, you’ll truly hear what I’m about.”
"Expressions of Soul" is more than just an album; it’s a heartfelt narrative that invites listeners to experience the world through Cornell’s eyes. Mark your calendars for August 23, 2024, and get ready to embark on a soulful journey with Cornell 'C.C.' Carter.
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