RUDY CURRENCE
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RUDY CURRENCE

Atlanta, Georgia, United States | INDIE

Atlanta, Georgia, United States | INDIE
Band R&B Singer/Songwriter

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"Rudy Currence - Reinvention"

It’s hard to believe we’re already ten days into the New Year, isn’t it? Hopefully the prospect of new beginnings hasn’t worn off just yet. Let’s face it, even if you don’t believe in resolutions, it’s a safe bet that some aspect of your life could use a reboot. If that’s the case then R&B singer Rudy Currence‘s new single Reinvention is right up your alley. Sometimes knowing that someone else can relate to what we’re going through is a motivating force, and hearing Rudy sing about starting over could ignite some spark that sets off a movement which leads to progress. I’m not saying it’s the Man In The Mirror of 2012, I’m just saying that hearing the word “reinvention” repeated in the chorus might have some sort of sub-conscious effect. Rudy not only sings his arse off, he shows some impressive chops with his production as well. It’s a lush, passionate sound that compliments his singing in a way that can evoke emotion if you’re in that frame of mind when you hear it. Be sure to check out his album Digital Analog for more of his vocal stylings and keep DJBooth on deck for more from Currence in 2012. - DJ Booth


"Rudy Currence - Reinvention"

It’s hard to believe we’re already ten days into the New Year, isn’t it? Hopefully the prospect of new beginnings hasn’t worn off just yet. Let’s face it, even if you don’t believe in resolutions, it’s a safe bet that some aspect of your life could use a reboot. If that’s the case then R&B singer Rudy Currence‘s new single Reinvention is right up your alley. Sometimes knowing that someone else can relate to what we’re going through is a motivating force, and hearing Rudy sing about starting over could ignite some spark that sets off a movement which leads to progress. I’m not saying it’s the Man In The Mirror of 2012, I’m just saying that hearing the word “reinvention” repeated in the chorus might have some sort of sub-conscious effect. Rudy not only sings his arse off, he shows some impressive chops with his production as well. It’s a lush, passionate sound that compliments his singing in a way that can evoke emotion if you’re in that frame of mind when you hear it. Be sure to check out his album Digital Analog for more of his vocal stylings and keep DJBooth on deck for more from Currence in 2012. - DJ Booth


"Grammy Winner Rudy Currence Performs Gospel Music"

Triple threat singer-songwriter-musician and Grammy award winner Rudy Currence entertained students and faculty members last Saturday night with his rich, soulful vocals and relatable humor.

Invited by African Latino American Society (AfLatAm) as a guest performer for Black Arts Weekend, Currence has recently signed with Def Jam Recordings and will be putting out a new album soon. Currence was also featured on Christian hip-hop artist LeCrae’s Grammy-winning album “Gravity” in the song “Lucky Ones.”

Opening for Currence in Susie’s, Azure, Andover’s all-female acapella group, started off the night’s performance with a rendition of Rihanna’s “Take a Bow.” The audience grew significantly by the start of Azure’s next song, a cover of the Black Eyed Peas’ “Where Is the Love?” The audience clapped along throughout the piece as they echoed “I don’t know” during the song’s chorus.

Giving an equally enthusiastic performance, The Yorkies, Andover’s all-male acapella group, took the stage and performed Outkast’s bluesy hip-hop hit “Roses.” Although the group encountered some lyrical problems towards the last verse, they finished strongly and kept the audience in high spirits.

Currence’s first appearance on the stage was met with roaring applause and whistles as Devontae Freeland ’15, a member of the Yorkies, introduced the singer.

Dressed casually in green khakis, brown boots and a chambray shirt, Currence remixed a number of songs, featuring a personalized cover of Roberta Flack’s classic single “Killing Me Softly.”

Currence gave a personal touch to his performances by pausing multiple times to give shout outs to his hometown, Rock Hill, SC and AfLatAm for bringing him to campus, before launching into a heartfelt rendition of Bill Wither’s “Lean on Me.” The audience was shy at first but joined in wholeheartedly when he belted out the chorus to Rihanna’s “Umbrella.”

“I got to meet him before the show started. He introduced himself to me, and I addressed him, ‘Mr. Currence, how are you doing?’ and [Currence] said, ‘Call me Rudy.’ He’s so down to earth,” said Benny Ogando ’15.

Many of the covers Currence performed displayed his love for hip-hop and gospel music. In a cover of “Adorn” by Miguel, Currence showed his mastery of the stage and technical dexterity on the piano.

“My parents put me in piano lessons at age six; I started singing when I was three and I even went to school for music, so my brother and I were always either in chorus or band,” said Currence in an interview.

Departing from his typical rock and R&B discography, Currence launched into Sheryl Crow’s hit, “If It Makes You Happy.” He integrated a remix near the end of the performance, leading the audience to a call-and-response version of “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin.

“He was a really talented artist. He definitely had a phenomenal range and was extremely talented. There was something about his presence on the stage that just really made his performance enjoyable.” said Scott Simpson ’14.

Currence interacted with the audience during his performance and encouraged them to sing and clap along. His cover of Gnarls Barkley’s “Crazy” and his new song “Weave Ponytail” highlighted his ability to perform a wide range of musical genres.

“I loved his performance because he was both soulful and playful. Even from the audience, you could tell he was charming. Everyone was rapt the entire time because his vocal and musical talent were not only amazing; they gave off a different vibe than what we usually get with performers,” said Chiamaka Okorie ’13.

Currence’s last tribute brought the audience’s attention to the cultural awareness aspect of Black Arts Weekend with two gospel songs: a traditional song with lyrics about reason and God’s guidance, as well as his own gospel composition, “Zion.” Singing in church has always been a big aspect of Currence’s life, and he often implements it in his professional albums.

“I grew up around great music. My dad and all of his brothers sing and play some kind of instrument, so my brother and I had [always] had an opportunity to experience music at an early age. Both my parents loved music,” said Currence. “It can [become tiring being on the road], but you have to be passionate about it, and I am passionate about it, so I enjoy it.” - The Phillipian Online


"Donald Lawrence Saves The 'Best For Last'"

In celebration of 20 years of musical excellence, gospel trailblazer Donald Lawrence has prepared a special two-volume release entitled Best For Last. Recorded back in June, this special CD/DVD offering serves as a live highlight reel with a stellar guest list of gospel artists and R&B divas. Volume 1 of Best For Last covers Lawrence's compositions both old and new, including Faith Evans on "Say a Prayer," Kelly Price on "When the Saints Go To Worship," Coko of SWV on "Mighty God," as well as Lalah Hathaway conquering "Ultimate Relationship," a song Lawrence originally penned for Mary J. Blige's 2003 Love & Life album. Yolanda Adams and Rudy Currence, YouTube sensation and Lawrence's cousin, also join in on the celebration. Preview Donald Lawrence's Best For Last via SoundCloud and catch a few of Lawrence's friends discussing his legacy in a behind-the-scenes clip after the bounce. - SoulBounce.com


"Donald Lawrence Saves The 'Best For Last'"

In celebration of 20 years of musical excellence, gospel trailblazer Donald Lawrence has prepared a special two-volume release entitled Best For Last. Recorded back in June, this special CD/DVD offering serves as a live highlight reel with a stellar guest list of gospel artists and R&B divas. Volume 1 of Best For Last covers Lawrence's compositions both old and new, including Faith Evans on "Say a Prayer," Kelly Price on "When the Saints Go To Worship," Coko of SWV on "Mighty God," as well as Lalah Hathaway conquering "Ultimate Relationship," a song Lawrence originally penned for Mary J. Blige's 2003 Love & Life album. Yolanda Adams and Rudy Currence, YouTube sensation and Lawrence's cousin, also join in on the celebration. Preview Donald Lawrence's Best For Last via SoundCloud and catch a few of Lawrence's friends discussing his legacy in a behind-the-scenes clip after the bounce. - SoulBounce.com


"Rudy Currence, The Experience"

The lights were dim and the mood was set. It was already past show time but my Parmesan crusted pork chop, baked sweet potatoes (although a bit under seasoned for my taste) and grilled asparagus kept me busy until the show started. After a short while, the MC grabbed the microphone and made the introduction. The audience shifted their attention from their plates and to the back of the room where Rudy Currence, dressed down wearing black jeans, a screen tee and sneakers, was casually walking in with three backup singers and one guitarist. They each took their positions on the stage. The Decatur, Georgia music venue wasn’t quite standing room only, but wasn’t far from it either.
He greeted the crowd and immediately started the show. He has three CD’s and a mixtape under his belt, but most of the set list consisted of songs from his first album and various covers of songs by other artists. For people who have been following Currence’s career, it was refreshing to see him dig into his musical repertoire for older material.
Currence has an effective way of commanding a room. His calm, quiet confidence and comfortable and witty banter made it easy not only for him to talk to the audience, but for them to also talk back. He told a comical anecdote about a mental conversation he had with singer/ songwriter Sheryl Crow. He asked her if he could cover a song of hers and she gave her blessing. Perfectly timed punch lines made the story all the more impactful. She told him (in his head) that if he sang her song, he had to put his own spin on it and he was happy to oblige. For those who had never heard the original, “If It Makes You Happy” sounded like a new single from the emerging soul, rhythm and blues, pop vocalist.
The Rock Hill, South Carolina native is a country boy at heart and raised in the church, something he is very proud of. As a self-proclaimed PK (preacher’s kid), Currence reminisced about singing in church and even returned to those roots, sang a few gospel songs and even broke out in an impromptu “choir rehearsal” where he encouraged the crowd to participate in the singing, an offer which most people accepted.
Currence is pretty well known for his curly fro that was tamed by a red fitted ball cap. The only thing more distinct is his voice. He effortlessly sways in and out of falsetto and seemingly never grows tired of running up and down the vocal scales.
And shall we talk about the Grammy? Arguably the most prestigious award a musician can receive and Currence has one. His humble personality didn’t allow him to dive too deeply into the details, but he worked on gospel artist Lacrae’s album and it won best gospel record. Therefore Currence won a Grammy.
This is the first of many accolades soon to come. This was more than your average unplugged musical showcase. This was different that your run of the mill acoustic set. This was stronger and better than your everyday concert. This was an experience.
Thanks to social media, there are many ways to stay connected with Rudy Currence, check out his website www.rudycurrenceonline.com and www.mikechekent.com. Also follow him on twitter @Rudy_Currence and subscribe to his YouTube channel YouTube.com/RudyCurrenceTV. - AskDrO.com


"Rudy Currence, The Experience"

The lights were dim and the mood was set. It was already past show time but my Parmesan crusted pork chop, baked sweet potatoes (although a bit under seasoned for my taste) and grilled asparagus kept me busy until the show started. After a short while, the MC grabbed the microphone and made the introduction. The audience shifted their attention from their plates and to the back of the room where Rudy Currence, dressed down wearing black jeans, a screen tee and sneakers, was casually walking in with three backup singers and one guitarist. They each took their positions on the stage. The Decatur, Georgia music venue wasn’t quite standing room only, but wasn’t far from it either.
He greeted the crowd and immediately started the show. He has three CD’s and a mixtape under his belt, but most of the set list consisted of songs from his first album and various covers of songs by other artists. For people who have been following Currence’s career, it was refreshing to see him dig into his musical repertoire for older material.
Currence has an effective way of commanding a room. His calm, quiet confidence and comfortable and witty banter made it easy not only for him to talk to the audience, but for them to also talk back. He told a comical anecdote about a mental conversation he had with singer/ songwriter Sheryl Crow. He asked her if he could cover a song of hers and she gave her blessing. Perfectly timed punch lines made the story all the more impactful. She told him (in his head) that if he sang her song, he had to put his own spin on it and he was happy to oblige. For those who had never heard the original, “If It Makes You Happy” sounded like a new single from the emerging soul, rhythm and blues, pop vocalist.
The Rock Hill, South Carolina native is a country boy at heart and raised in the church, something he is very proud of. As a self-proclaimed PK (preacher’s kid), Currence reminisced about singing in church and even returned to those roots, sang a few gospel songs and even broke out in an impromptu “choir rehearsal” where he encouraged the crowd to participate in the singing, an offer which most people accepted.
Currence is pretty well known for his curly fro that was tamed by a red fitted ball cap. The only thing more distinct is his voice. He effortlessly sways in and out of falsetto and seemingly never grows tired of running up and down the vocal scales.
And shall we talk about the Grammy? Arguably the most prestigious award a musician can receive and Currence has one. His humble personality didn’t allow him to dive too deeply into the details, but he worked on gospel artist Lacrae’s album and it won best gospel record. Therefore Currence won a Grammy.
This is the first of many accolades soon to come. This was more than your average unplugged musical showcase. This was different that your run of the mill acoustic set. This was stronger and better than your everyday concert. This was an experience.
Thanks to social media, there are many ways to stay connected with Rudy Currence, check out his website www.rudycurrenceonline.com and www.mikechekent.com. Also follow him on twitter @Rudy_Currence and subscribe to his YouTube channel YouTube.com/RudyCurrenceTV. - AskDrO.com


"KAWAI ARTIST RUDY CURRENCE Awarded Grammy for Gospel Album of the Year"

Rancho Dominguez, CA • March, 2013 – Kawai Artist Rudy Currence recently received a Grammy Award for his work on rapper LeCrae’s album titled “Gravity”, which was named Best Gospel Album of the Year at the 2013 Grammy Awards ceremony. Mr. Currence co-wrote the title track and also wrote, co-produced and was featured on a second track titled “Lucky Ones”.

An up-and-coming singer / songwriter, Mr. Currence already has songwriting credits with multi-platinum artist Mya, the film “The Bourne Identity”, and artist Ray J’s “Raydiation”. He also received the ASCAP Writer’s Award in 2005, 2006 and 2007.

As a performing artist, Rudy Currence has four albums to his credit with the fifth one, “Digital Analog”, soon to be released. He’s made national TV appearances on ABC’s “The View” and BET’s “106 and Park”. Rudy received extensive training in classical and jazz piano, and has significant experience singing Gospel, R&B, Hip-Hop and Pop music. His music is a creative, fresh sounding mix of all of these musical genres, and more. Rudy Currance Artist Page » - Kawai Official Website


"KAWAI ARTIST RUDY CURRENCE Awarded Grammy for Gospel Album of the Year"

Rancho Dominguez, CA • March, 2013 – Kawai Artist Rudy Currence recently received a Grammy Award for his work on rapper LeCrae’s album titled “Gravity”, which was named Best Gospel Album of the Year at the 2013 Grammy Awards ceremony. Mr. Currence co-wrote the title track and also wrote, co-produced and was featured on a second track titled “Lucky Ones”.

An up-and-coming singer / songwriter, Mr. Currence already has songwriting credits with multi-platinum artist Mya, the film “The Bourne Identity”, and artist Ray J’s “Raydiation”. He also received the ASCAP Writer’s Award in 2005, 2006 and 2007.

As a performing artist, Rudy Currence has four albums to his credit with the fifth one, “Digital Analog”, soon to be released. He’s made national TV appearances on ABC’s “The View” and BET’s “106 and Park”. Rudy received extensive training in classical and jazz piano, and has significant experience singing Gospel, R&B, Hip-Hop and Pop music. His music is a creative, fresh sounding mix of all of these musical genres, and more. Rudy Currance Artist Page » - Kawai Official Website


"Music Connection Vol. 28 No. 3"

Demo Critiques p. 42

"Already accomplished as a songwriter (for Mya, major soundtracks), this formally trained South Carolinian strikes forth as a solo performer on this polished full-lenghter. "Cha Cha" is a hooky slice of pop/R&B with a throbbing, sensual propulsion that's liberally spliced with FX on the vocals and track. The mellow, acoustic-guitar based "Songwriter" convinces us that this multi-instrumentalist can also sing with an agility informed by the likes of Wonder and McKnight. Urban departments should call him."
Rating 8/10 - Ed. J. Michael Dolan


"Music Connection Vol. 28 No. 3"

Demo Critiques p. 42

"Already accomplished as a songwriter (for Mya, major soundtracks), this formally trained South Carolinian strikes forth as a solo performer on this polished full-lenghter. "Cha Cha" is a hooky slice of pop/R&B with a throbbing, sensual propulsion that's liberally spliced with FX on the vocals and track. The mellow, acoustic-guitar based "Songwriter" convinces us that this multi-instrumentalist can also sing with an agility informed by the likes of Wonder and McKnight. Urban departments should call him."
Rating 8/10 - Ed. J. Michael Dolan


"NPR All Songs Considered"



"Initially, I began writing 'Carousels' about one character, a young lady with serious problems. The song eventually evolved into a medley of scenes where each verse deals with a different person and his/her own list of traumas. The song creates its own merry-go-round effect circling different people and their problems (hence the title Carousels).

Verse one describes Mary, [who] has become emotionally attached to a spouse who abuses her. In the second verse, I talk about a teen-age runaway and drug addict who finds himself alone and homeless with no money. The next verse describes a wealthy business owner whose bad investments lead him to bankruptcy. As he stands looking off the ledge of a fifteen-story building, he contemplates suicide.

Although 'Carousels' deals with very serious themes, I believe the song conveys a sincere realness and overall positive outcome for the listener. In the closing verse, I encourage [people] to remain optimistic because if we are patient, we all can overcome our individual adversities. "

-- Rudy Currence
- http://www.npr.org/programs/asc/openmic/index.php?episode=21#song7


"NPR All Songs Considered"



"Initially, I began writing 'Carousels' about one character, a young lady with serious problems. The song eventually evolved into a medley of scenes where each verse deals with a different person and his/her own list of traumas. The song creates its own merry-go-round effect circling different people and their problems (hence the title Carousels).

Verse one describes Mary, [who] has become emotionally attached to a spouse who abuses her. In the second verse, I talk about a teen-age runaway and drug addict who finds himself alone and homeless with no money. The next verse describes a wealthy business owner whose bad investments lead him to bankruptcy. As he stands looking off the ledge of a fifteen-story building, he contemplates suicide.

Although 'Carousels' deals with very serious themes, I believe the song conveys a sincere realness and overall positive outcome for the listener. In the closing verse, I encourage [people] to remain optimistic because if we are patient, we all can overcome our individual adversities. "

-- Rudy Currence
- http://www.npr.org/programs/asc/openmic/index.php?episode=21#song7


"Furman Magazine Fall 2003 Vol. 46, No. 3"

"Update: Still pursuing his dreams, Rudy scores with new CD" p 36

"Go rent the Bourne Identity. A Rudy song is featured on the soundtrack. Or look for "Moodring," the third album from Mya, the popular Grammy-winning recording star. It features two songs co-written by Rudy, "Sophisticated Lady" and "No Sleep Tonight. ...
To get the best tast of the Rudy sound, though, check out his first CD, titled "More Than You'll Ever Know." ...the CD shows off Rudy's eclectic style, smooth tenor voice and musical versatility -he wrote, produced and arranged all the songs for the album. ... The album is an infectious lisen with a strong crossover appeal, ... Take time to discover a young artist with a developing sound, a soulful delivery, a performing style that transcends musical genres, and a strong drive to succeed.
Here's betting he makes it big."

-Jim Stewart - Ed. Jim Stewart


"Furman Magazine Fall 2003 Vol. 46, No. 3"

"Update: Still pursuing his dreams, Rudy scores with new CD" p 36

"Go rent the Bourne Identity. A Rudy song is featured on the soundtrack. Or look for "Moodring," the third album from Mya, the popular Grammy-winning recording star. It features two songs co-written by Rudy, "Sophisticated Lady" and "No Sleep Tonight. ...
To get the best tast of the Rudy sound, though, check out his first CD, titled "More Than You'll Ever Know." ...the CD shows off Rudy's eclectic style, smooth tenor voice and musical versatility -he wrote, produced and arranged all the songs for the album. ... The album is an infectious lisen with a strong crossover appeal, ... Take time to discover a young artist with a developing sound, a soulful delivery, a performing style that transcends musical genres, and a strong drive to succeed.
Here's betting he makes it big."

-Jim Stewart - Ed. Jim Stewart


"The Star of Zion, Vol. 127, No. 45-46"

"1996 Youth-A-Rama Winner Produces Music Independently" p.11

"Quiet, unassuming, yet blessed with an abundance of talent, Rudy Currence is a man with a vision. ...Rudy Currence is a breath of fresh air in today's music scene. Multi-talented yet humble, Rudy sings, writes, produces, and plays several instruments including the piano and guitar. ...His musical background is diverse; rooted in gospel yet encompassing every genre of music... jazz, blues, R&B, folk, pop, and classical. ..."
-Rev. J. Ruth Davis - Ed. Mike Lisby


"The Star of Zion, Vol. 127, No. 45-46"

"1996 Youth-A-Rama Winner Produces Music Independently" p.11

"Quiet, unassuming, yet blessed with an abundance of talent, Rudy Currence is a man with a vision. ...Rudy Currence is a breath of fresh air in today's music scene. Multi-talented yet humble, Rudy sings, writes, produces, and plays several instruments including the piano and guitar. ...His musical background is diverse; rooted in gospel yet encompassing every genre of music... jazz, blues, R&B, folk, pop, and classical. ..."
-Rev. J. Ruth Davis - Ed. Mike Lisby


Discography

"More Than You'll Ever Know"
"Here With You"
"Last Christmas"
"Cold Hands Warm Heart" (Single)
"Digital Analog"

Photos

Bio

Rudy Currence is a grammy award winning, singer-songwriter whose musical background spans almost every genre. He has extensive classical and jazz piano training as well as experience singing Classical, R&B, Gospel, Hip Hop, Soul, and Pop music.
FYI: Rudy is a musical chameleon! He can adapt to any room and adjust his set accordingly. Rudy can command an audience whether in an intimate coffee house setting or playing a mainstage! He serves as a great feature for special tributes i.e. Black History Month programs, Tributes, Gospel Concerts, etc. Rudy also offers a "Master Class/ Songwriters Workshop" and a Motivational and Educational Lecture on "How to Win a G.R.A.M.M.Y" for students.
Currence, began his career by writing songs for multi-platinum recording artist Mya, the blockbuster hit movie “The Bourne Identity” starring Matt Damon, and national recording
artist/ reality TV star, Ray J. Rudy has since been honored as one of the recipients of the ASCAP writer’s award and received this award consecutively for three years. Rudy has released several CD's including “More Than You’ll
Ever Know”, “Here With You”, and "Last Christmas" all available now on iTunes.
Rudy has appeared on ABC's "The View" performing with Multi-Platinum, Grammy, and Emmy Award winning Producer Quincy Jones, Ludacris, and
Naturally 7. He has also performed live on BET's 106 and
Park.
Rudy most recently was awarded a Grammy for his writing and production on Lecrae "Gravity". He is a featured artist on Multiple Stellar and Grammy Award winning, producer- songwriter Donald Lawrence's new CD, "Best For Last" and wrote two songs for four-time Grammy Award winning singer-songwriter and Gospel Legend, Karen Clark Sheard's forthcoming CD. He has an endorsement with Kawai Piano and released his new project "Digital Analog" available at www.mikechekent.com.
Rudy's YouTube videos have garnered thousands of subscribers and millions of views. For more samples of Rudy's music please visit and subscribe to his youtube channel: www.youtube.com/rudycurrencetv