Rahsaan Patterson
Singer/Songwriter Rahsaan Patterson Returns with His Seventh CD Defying Category
Offering Inspiring Genre-Bending Soundtrack of Love, Redemption & Hope
Heroes & Gods Is First New CD in Eight Years
The number seven has long had mystical and spiritual references. There are seven cosmic planes of consciousness, seven wonders of the world and the number seven represents divine abundance. Cycles of change and rebirth also tend to come in seven-year intervals. It is only fitting that Rahsaan Patterson’s seventh album as a leader, Heroes & Gods, released on Shanachie Entertainment May 17, 2019, is his boldest musical gift to the world yet. “This was the longest amount of time that I have ever allowed myself to make an album,” confesses Rahsaan. “This time I allowed myself the room to breathe and allow the music to tell me what I need to do.” The result is an enthralling collection of Rahsaan’s most organic, emotionally potent and sonically adventurous offering yet. It is no wonder why R&B goddess Chaka Khan has sung his praises and he has been co-billed with Earth Wind & Fire, Lalah Hathaway and Fantasia. His songs have been recorded by Brandy and Van Hunt and he has collaborated with many of the greatest female voices of his generation including Faith Evans, Ledisi and Rachelle Ferrell.
Authenticity has always been at the forefront of Rahsaan Patterson’s artistry. One need only look at the personal interactions he shares with his fans on social media to understand the deep connections he has forged with them throughout the years. From his eponymously titled debut in 1997 to his last album, bleuphoria (2011), Rahsaan Patterson’s adventurous musical palette, which fuses the worlds of R&B, funk, jazz, gospel and electronica, has continuously kept his fans on the edge of their seats. The handsome, charismatic, witty and introspective singer/songwriter returns with his highly anticipated new recording in seven years on the eve of his 35th anniversary in the entertainment industry. It has been some journey since he first landed in the national spotlight at age 10 alongside Fergie and Mario Lopez on the Disney show Kids Incorporated.
One of the things that has endeared Rahsaan Patterson to critics and fans alike is his instantly recognizable voice that in its most natural state is flawless. His wide-ranging honey-toned and velvety smooth vocals, coupled with his unrivaled agility and his superb songwriting craftsmanship make him a standout in an era of here today-gone tomorrow artists.
The first single on Heroes & Gods is the glorious “Sent From Heaven.” The brilliant horn orchestration and tasteful arrangement perfectly frame Rahsaan Patterson’s impeccable voice as he give thanks and sings, “My days are much brighter because you’re Sent From Heaven.” The song has all the makings of an instant classic and beautifully illustrates Rahsaan’s keen abilities as a songwriter. “I have been influenced by classic material and artists. This is something that is missing from today’s climate,” says Rahsaan. “Some songs might have a melody but how many will truly resonate with us 40 years later? As a songwriter and artist, it is important to insert that part of my creativity.”
Heroes & Gods is a testament to Rahsaan Patterson’s staying power as a relevant artist whose music has not only grown with him but with his evolving fan base. “I have always felt my path is my path and when everything is aligned that is when it will be my time to shine brighter.” Heroes & Gods is a confirmation to the fact that Rahsaan Patterson’s time is now.