Today, critically acclaimed singer-songwriter ABIAH premieres his new music video for “September” exclusively on The Revivalist. Showcasing the lead single on his new release, Life as a Ballad (available on Madoh Music, distributed via Purpose Music Group/eOne), the video was shot at Dead Horse Bay in New York and directed by Scott Gordon Bleicher. The debut comes less than two weeks before major performances for ABIAH in the Northeast supporting the project: opening for The Robert Glasper Experiment at The Birchmere in Alexandria, Va., on Oct. 11 and an album release performance at Le Poisson Rouge in New York City on Oct. 15.
Ever since the untimely departure of Luther Vandross, the American pop scene has been absent of a Black American male balladeer possessed of chops beyond belief, staunch lyricism and emotional maturity. ABIAH (pronounced Ah-bee-yah) more than adequately answers the call of that absence with an album and a presence that is sensuous, soulful, honest, grown-up and quite passionate about restoring vocal excellence to the contemporary airwaves.
Who is ABIAH? These are the bare facts: he is a seasoned balladeer possessed of a five-and a half octave range; an established vocal coach and former Universal Republic recording artist; and he is of Ghanaian, Cuban, Native American descent, though raised in Rochester, NY.
While that background remains a part of his roots and identity, 2012 marks a musical, professional and personal evolution for the singer-songwriter. Previously known as “Jeremiah” in the music world (full name Jeremiah Abiah, the latter of which means ‘God is my father’), Abiah sets forth his highly anticipated sophomore album, Life as a Ballad, reflective of a long journey towards his intensely personal sound and overall musical growth – consisting of nine self-penned originals.
“There was a moment when I thought I had lost my voice. “I was experiencing growing pains which were hard to decipher at first, but eventually they helped me to trust my heart, sound and aesthetic again. I thought I would never record again. I even toyed with the idea but the music perpetually tugged at me. Changing my stage name was the impetus of a new beginning,” says ABIAH in a news release. “This is how Life as a Ballad was born as I dealt with the idea of finding beauty in the dark, that glimmer of light when all hope seemed lost.”
A move to New York City in the early 2000s saw ABIAH “hitting the pavement hard” and eventually playing Central Park SummerStage and the world renowned Blue Note on a regular basis; though a turning point came when ABIAH started gaining the attention of major labels. As is frequently the case for ambitious but not yet quite industry-savvy young artists, ABIAH’s fledgling recordings fell through the cracks. An entire album, brought to the verge of a major label deal, got shelved because the song the major label executives favored most was the only one not produced by a very major and deservedly much lauded producer.
“I’m not opposed to major labels. I just believe an artist needs to keep his finger on the pulse of everything. It’s hard to be artist and business, but it is necessary,” says ABIAH. “Initially I was angry and came out pointing fingers, but the healthier aspect became, what did or didn’t I do? Taking that responsibility has given me power and greater perspective.”
While plotting his next round of moves, creatively and professionally (following his major label departure) ABIAH got practically handed an unexpected cottage industry, when he became an in-demand vocal coach, even featured on MTV’s program, MADE. Initial inquiries from singer-friends impressed by his sound and range has blossomed into a side-business that finds him coaching up-and-comers prepping for demos and showcases, solid pros hankering to rise up to that proverbial next level, and musical game show contestants hoping to impress celebrity judges with noticeably increased prowess.
This recording is the result of ABIAH’s steady and patient march over a decade in New York, finding the perfect songs and session mates to support his vision. Like any astute young artist in pursuit of a unique bespoke career path, ABIAH wisely sought out collaborators who were of highly skilled and veteran pedigrees, and of course, simpatico. Notable among those collaborators are very well regarded young pianist Robert Glasper, who is ABIAH’s cousin who he met in earlier days while they cut their musical teeth in the New York’s music landscape. Marvin Sewell, the album’s stellar guitarist, has been a frequent flyer in Cassandra Wilson’s ensemble since the late 1990s as well as Jack DeJohnette.
Ultimately, Life as a Ballad designates ABIAH as a contender for that sizable niche slice of today’s market known as Adult Contemporary – the same slice where equally well-honed, melodious and crafty modern male vocalists like Michael Bublé, Jason Mraz, Sting, Seal and occasionally even Robin Thicke are seen to reside.
“Days before Adams died,” Carner explains, “pianist Tommy Flanagan, Pepper’s closest friend, was by his bedside. He later told me that Pepper weakly motioned toward my unfinished manuscript on thenightstand, as if to say ‘please make sure my legacy gets out there.’ When I heard that story,” Carner continues, “I knew I had to finish this work. The guy was an absolute genius as a musician, as a stylist, and as a composer… incredible! I needed to let the world know about those three things, especially the compositions.”
To launch his new book and music offerings, Carner has collaborated with Motéma to co-opt his regularly scheduled Sommelier Direct fall wine sales route, and turn it into a 30-city JOY ROAD release tour, in which he will preside over book and CD signings; emcee live music performances of Pepper’s music; do radio publicity stops; and give college lectures… with wine tastings all along the way!
