The question may elicit head shakes and laughs, but one listen to this 27-year old Decatur, Ga., singer and even the most realistic wonder.
“I grew up singing in a traditional Pentecostal church, the same way [musical legends] Sam Cooke “You Send Me” and Otis Redding “Sittin? on] the Dock of the Bay” were brought up,” said Ryan Shaw. “Music was everywhere in my life, so it?s natural for me to sing.”
That?s not to say that Shaw came by traditional soul naturally. Indeed, the son of deeply religious parents only discovered the sound a few years ago. Once he began to sing it, it?s fair to say he found his true musical voice.
His debut album, “This is Ryan Shaw,” is a 12-tune mix that includes classics by songwriters including Ashford and Simpson “I?m Your Man” and Holland, Dozier, Holland “Working on a Building of Love,” and some originals. Don?t be surprised if you find yourself wondering if you?re in 1960s-era Motor City whenShaw?s vocals begin.
“I am on a mission,” said Shaw of his quest to reignite the energy that traditional soul once brought to listeners. “I have some big shoes to fill.”
What?s great about Shaw?s album is that the original material (including “Nobody” and “We Got Love”) sounds as hearty and full as those that came right from Motown. The music has caught the ear not just of soul lovers, but rock fans too.
Consider that last month Shaw was selected as the sole opener for the ongoing Van Halen tour featuring lead singer David Lee Roth, who hasn?t performed with the band in 22 years (the band?s Baltimore show was rescheduled for April 15).
That pairing has left many rockers wondering what to expect when they are introduced to Shaw?s vocal stylings. The answer is simple, according to critic Casey Dolan of the Los Angeles Times: “Prepare to have your soul rocked.”
IF YOU GO
Performer: Ryan Shaw
Venue: Rams Head on Stage, 33 West St., Annapolis
When: 10 p.m. Saturday
Details: $20; 410-547-SEAT
