The world of rhythm and blues is a little quieter today with the passing of Don Bryant, a gifted songwriter and singer, at the age of 83. His family announced his death on Boxing Day, marking the end of a remarkable musical journey that spanned decades.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee in 1942, Bryant’s musical roots ran deep, beginning with singing in church at the tender age of five. He quickly progressed, joining his father’s family vocal group and honing his skills in a nurturing environment.
As a teenager, Bryant’s talent blossomed further with a gospel quartet formed for a local radio show. This led to a breakthrough opportunity performing secular pop songs on the popular WLOK show, hosted by Dick ‘Cane’ Cole. The group, initially known as The Four Kings, eventually became the house band for Willie Mitchell, with Bryant taking the lead.
Even in his youth, Bryant’s songwriting prowess was evident. He penned “I Got To Know” for The 5 Royales, launching a career that would see him craft over 150 songs for a diverse range of artists. He found a creative home at Hi Records, balancing songwriting with his performances.
Bryant’s songs became staples for some of the biggest names in soul and blues. Solomon Burke, Etta James, Otis Clay, and Albert King all brought his compositions to life. He penned hits like “99 Pounds” and “Do I Need You” for Ann Peebles, forging a partnership that would define a generation.
Their collaboration reached its peak with “I Can’t Stand the Rain,” released in 1973. The song climbed the charts, reaching Number 38, and became a timeless classic, resonating with audiences for years to come. Its influence extended far beyond its initial success, inspiring covers and samples from artists like Tina Turner, Seal, Missy Elliott, and Kaytranada.
Bryant once shared the inspiration behind the song, noting that while many songs romanticized the rain, he and Peebles wanted to capture the feeling of sadness it could evoke. It was a song about acknowledging and embracing vulnerability.
The musical connection between Bryant and Peebles deepened, leading to marriage in 1974. For the next decade, Bryant largely focused on writing and touring as Peebles’ opening act, a testament to their shared artistic vision.
After a period dedicated to gospel music, Bryant experienced a remarkable resurgence in 2017. He joined forces with Memphis-based soul band The Bo-Keys, returning to the stage and the studio with renewed energy. Their collaboration resulted in “Don’t Give Up on Love,” his first album in nearly 50 years.
The partnership with The Bo-Keys continued, culminating in the Grammy-nominated album “You Make Me Feel” in 2020. It was a fitting recognition of Bryant’s enduring talent and the power of his music.
In a 2020 interview, Bryant spoke of music as “one of my greatest loves,” a sanctuary where he could find solace and escape. His passion for creating and sharing his art remained unwavering throughout his life.
Don Bryant leaves behind a legacy of soulful songs and heartfelt performances. His music will continue to inspire and move listeners for generations to come, a testament to the enduring power of rhythm and blues.
