By: TR Philips
Glenn Lewis: The Unfading Voice of Neo-Soul
In the early 2000s, from the wintry expanses of Canada, a voice emerged that would leave a lasting imprint on the neo-soul genre. Glenn Lewis, with his debut album World Outside My Window in 2002, introduced the world to the soul-stirring hit “Don’t You Forget It.” His music, a perfect blend for a serene evening or a deep dive into emotions, has since become a staple for aficionados of classic R&B and neo-soul. Echoing the legendary sounds of Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway, and Marvin Gaye, Lewis’s discography is essential for anyone who cherishes the depth and soulfulness of timeless music. Let’s delve into what makes Glenn Lewis a standout artist in the neo-soul scene.
After captivating audiences with Moment of Truth in 2013, Lewis took a step back from the limelight to prioritize his personal life and address health concerns. Despite the challenges of navigating the music industry as an independent artist, Lewis maintained his musical presence through collaborations and contributions to various soundtracks, underscoring his resilience and enduring talent.
Lewis’s collaborative efforts include working with Kardinal Offishall on “Backbone” for the Honey soundtrack in 2003, a showcase of his silky vocals against a backdrop of hip-hop and R&B fusion. His cover of Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition” for the Deliver Us from Eva soundtrack further highlighted his versatility and ability to honor classic tunes with his unique touch.
In 2006, Lewis appeared on “Back for More” with Canadian R&B artist Keshia Chanté, blending their voices in a soulful harmony that exemplifies Lewis’s collaborative spirit. His partnership with Babyface on “I Want You” for The Fighting Temptations soundtrack showcased a timeless ballad that highlighted Lewis’s vocal prowess.
2017 marked a significant year with the release of “Chasing Goosebumps,” an album produced in collaboration with DJ Jazzy Jeff as part of Jeff’s “Playlist Retreat.” The project was a critical success, offering a fresh take on neo-soul and showcasing the seamless blend of Lewis’s voice with Jazzy Jeff’s production.
The Fun Rises, The Fun Sets, released in 2015, marked Lewis’s return to music, featuring his signature smooth sound with a modern twist. The album included notable collaborations, reflecting Lewis’s evolving artistry while staying true to his soulful roots.
His latest single, “Good One,” released in 2021, continues to highlight Lewis’s knack for creating music that resonates on a deeply emotional level, solidifying his position as a beloved figure in the neo-soul community.
For fans over forty and beyond, who hold a deep appreciation for the rich, soulful melodies of classic R&B and neo-soul, Glenn Lewis remains an emblem of musical integrity and talent. His journey through the ebbs and flows of the music industry not only showcases his adaptability and perseverance but also the timeless nature of his music. Here’s a comprehensive playlist of Glenn Lewis’s most impactful tracks to immerse yourself in his artistry:
Glenn Lewis’s music is perfect for any neo-soul fan, with smooth vocals and thoughtful lyrics that will have you feeling all kinds of emotions. Here’s a playlist of Glenn Lewis’s top tracks to get you started:
“Don’t You Forget It” – World Outside My Window (2002)
“Fall Again” – World Outside My Window (2002)
“Take Me” – World Outside My Window (2002)
“Storm” – World Outside My Window (2002)
“This Love” – The Fun Rises, The Fun Sets (2015)
“One More Day” – The Fun Rises, The Fun Sets (2015)
“Back for More” – With Keshia Chanté (2006)
“What’s Come Over Me” – Moment of Truth (2013)
“Beautiful Eyes” – Moment of Truth (2013)
Glenn Lewis is a talented and influential figure in the neo-soul genre, with a discography that showcases his soulful vocals, thoughtful lyrics, and timeless sound. While he took a hiatus from music after the release of Moment of Truth, he remained active in the music industry, collaborating with other artists and contributing to several soundtracks. His return to music in 2015 with The Fun Rises, The Fun Sets was a welcome one, and his music continues to be a staple of the neo-soul genre. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music, Glenn Lewis’s soulful sounds are sure to impress.
