Weldon Irvine, born October 27, 1943, and departing this world on April 9, 2002, was a multifaceted American musician, celebrated for his contributions as a composer, playwright, poet, pianist, organist, and lyricist. His work crossed various genres, seamlessly blending elements of funk, jazz, and soul, which earned him a revered place within the pantheon of music innovators. Perhaps best known for penning the lyrics to "To Be Young, Gifted and Black," made famous by the legendary Nina Simone, Weldon Irvine became a voice for the civil rights movement, embedding social consciousness within his art.

Irvine's catalogue is rich and varied, with albums like "Sinbad" and "Spirit Man" exemplifying his penchant for exploring the intersection of rhythmic complexity and emotive melody. His live performances, such as those captured on "Live at Dean Street," showcased his dynamic energy and virtuosic skill. Despite enduring mainstream obscurity, he was a mentor and influence to a multitude of artists, particularly in the hip-hop community. His legacy is cemented in the echoes of his keyboard riffs and the enduring relevance of his profound lyrical messages—tributes to both his creativity and his deep-seated humanitarianism. Weldon Irvine's artistic journey is a testament to a life dedicated to the power of music and its potential to effect meaningful change.

Genres

Jazz Funk

Related Artists

Lonnie Liston Smith

Roy Ayers

Donald Byrd

Herbie Hancock

Patrice Rushen

Chick Corea

McCoy Tyner

Gil Scott-Heron

George Duke

Gary Bartz

Robert Glasper

Kamasi Washington

Latest Release

Spoken Melodies "Embrace The Positive"

Weldon Irvine

Album - 16 Tracks - Released February 28, 2023