Ronnie Williams - Soul Magic
R&B, Soul
Georgia, United States
Overall Impression: Managing to delicately blend its wonderfully handled soul and R&B elements together with the utmost style and flair, "Soul Magic" is a brilliant piece of songwriting that boasts a tremendous amount of groove, feel, and character. Ronnie Williams clearly knows his craft and gives an extremely assured and expressive performance that effortlessly glides over the equally well-realized musical backing that accompanies him. Superb vocal performances, soaring brass flourishes, wah-infused funk guitar, what more do you really need? "Soul Magic" is a fantastic piece of songwriting and I look forward to hearing more from Ronnie Williams in the very near future!
Strongest Point(s): There is something undeniably "classic" sounding about "Soul Magic" that gives it a certain level of maturity and sophistication that feels wholly authentic. "Soul Magic" hearkens back to the days of classic R&B, a time when I believe there was a greater emphasis on the songwriting and performances over the production, now that's not to say "Soul Magic" isn't a great recording, because it very clearly is, however, unlike many radio-friendly modern R&B numbers, this is an arrangement and mix that doesn't feel overly cluttered and retains a level of feeling that is so easily lost in the modern realm of music production. The performances are certainly a standout element of the track, and what performances they are. Ronnie has the perfect vocal style for a song of this nature, and when combined with the equally beautiful backing vocals, the result is breathtaking. The wah laden guitar adds a great touch of funk whilst the brass injects inspired elements of jazz and soul into the mix, again this is a great example of how the song balances its various stylistic influences in order to craft a thoroughly absorbing and inspired arrangement that flows seamlessly and is full to the brim with an abundance of personality. This was a pleasure to listen to, keep up the great work Ronnie!
Target Audience Appeal This is certainly one for R&B lovers who love a bit of funk and soul added in for good measure.
Artist target suggestions: Bobby Brown, John Legend, Jodeci, Soul For Real, Babyface, Case, Tevin Campbell, Johnny Gill, The Weeknd, Maxwell, Anthony Hamilton, Mint Condition, Jaheim, Jon B. Donell Jones, Kenny Lattimore
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About the Reviewer:
Andre Avanessian is a freelance session musician, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar, as well as teaching it, helping students both learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and how to become proficient in home recording.