“I named my first album ‘True to Myself’ for a
reason,” singer Eric Benet said as he reflected on a career that
has spanned the better part of two decades. “I said ‘if I’m going
to do this solo thing, I’m not going to chase radio’.”
Others have followed trends that ranged from
rap guest verses to auto-tune for the sake of hit records and
fleeting popularity. But over the years, Benet has worked to create
a lane in the industry that reflects the art – and the
heart (and soul)– of
making good music that will stand alongside the classics.
“With every passing year, popular R&B
music has become less like the mold that was cast in the early
1970s – less vulnerable, less raw singing and songwriting – and I
gotta represent!”
Tonight he will bring his tribute to throwback
soul back to St. Louis as a part of the St. Louis Super Music
Festival at the Chaifetz arena.
“I have a history with St. Louis, and it feels
good to come home.”
Few people know that it goes beyond him being
an STL favorite among R&B artists. His debut solo single
“Femininity” was recorded here with legendary producer and
songwriter Osunlade.
What can fans expect tonight when he returns
to the musical stomping grounds that led to his esteemed
introduction? Benet plans to leave his heart on the floor.
“Every time I step on the stage, I approach it
like my life is depending on this performance,” Benet said. “It’s
raw and emotional and speaks to the heart.
“mso-spacerun: yes;”>
fans, I have to give them what they love…and a little more.”
Eric Benet will perform alongside Charlie
Wilson, En Vogue and Fantasia tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Chaifetz
Arena. For more information, visit
“http://www.metrotix.com/”>www.metrotix.com
