Latimore

Latimore’s sound is the musical equivalent of a worn leather armchair and a glass of top-shelf bourbon. It is rooted in the rich soil of Southern Soul, but it carries a sophisticated, jazzy edge that sets it apart from the grit of Stax or the polish of Motown. His voice is a magnificent instrument: a deep, resonant baritone that can move from a gentle, persuasive whisper to a powerful, gospel-charged growl without ever losing its cool.

What truly distinguishes Latimore is his identity as a pianist. Unlike many soul singers who are frontmen first, his arrangements are built around his own fluid, bluesy keyboard work. There is a conversational quality to his music; he isn't just singing at you, he is telling you a story, often punctuated by melodic piano fills that feel like a second voice in the room. It is music that respects the listener's intelligence, focusing on the complexities of adult relationships and the quiet drama of everyday life.

To understand his magic, start with 'Let's Straighten It Out'. It is a masterclass in tension and release, featuring a long, moody instrumental intro that perfectly sets the stage for a plea for honesty. From there, explore his 1970s output on the Glades label for that warm, analog Miami soul sound that feels both timeless and deeply evocative of its era.