Rahway, NJ—-The Union County Performing Arts Center buzzed with energy as the sold-out crowd waited for Will Downing’s sophisticated brand of soul to the Tri-State area.
Tonight, at the UCPAC, a different atmosphere pervaded as Soul Jazz luminary Will Downing took center stage. His lyrical mastery filled the venue with an unmatched elegance.
With a career spanning 37 years and 27 albums, Grammy-nominated Downing has captivated global audiences with his smooth tracks and lush melodies, earning him the moniker “Prince of Sophisticated Soul” and recognition from music legends like The O’Jays, Billy Ocean, Regina Belle, Rachelle Ferrell, Mica Paris, and Mariah Carey.
Hailing from Brooklyn and a graduate of Erasmus Hall High School alongside musical talents like Clive Davis and Stephanie Mills, Downing signed his first record deal in 1988, achieving early success with his rendition of John Coltrane’s “A Love Supreme.”
Despite personal challenges, including a battle with Polymyositis and the loss of his daughter, Downing’s resilience shines through it all and remains the constant professional to his craft.
Tantalizing the sold-out crowd, the seasoned serenader swayed through an enchanting playlist of hits from “Love On You”, “A Million Ways”, “Say Yes”, to “Sorry I”, “I Go Crazy” and classic “I Try” mesmerizing the entire venue.
Downing and Philly’s own Carol Riddick brought the house down with “Nothing Has Ever Felt Like This” and had the audience reeling for more.
Continuing to delight diverse musical tastes with vibrant tunes and rich compositions, Downing persists in nurturing his fan base via his personal Sophisticated Soul record label, alongside consistently sold-out tour dates nationwide.
In the face of adversity, Downing stands as a testament to perseverance, guided by faith, and a commitment to his music. For more information on Will Downing and tour dates, visit: www.willdowning.com
