Charles Bradley and His Extraordinaires 'Why Is It So Hard' Live on Soundcheck

Charles Bradley was a 51-year-old James Brown impersonator in a Brooklyn club 10 years ago when he met the folks at Daptone Records. Now, "Black Velvet," as he is known, has released his first album. Bradley has been singing since he was about 16 and still has a big following as a James Brown impersonator.

[michael_coast]

I was born in Gainesville, Florida too. I feel so connected. 

[jayriley]

to hell with the two of you who gave this a thumbs down. 

[judsons]

Charles Bradley is THE best.
Great groove by guitarist, Tom Brenneck.

[adamt]

I can not wait to see the man live at the Firefly Music Festival in 3 weeks. The entire weekend is going to be so good, their website & line-up list introduced me to Charles Bradley and I have done nothing but listen to him since!

[AndySQUASHBOWELS]

It's perfect. Wait for show on Off Festival (Poland)

[cathdeneuve]

Otis sat on the dock of the bay and Charles is still singing about the same hardship today.

Saw Charles Bradley in London a couple of weeks ago and it was an awesome night. The extraordinaires are really just that: extraordinaires! Look forward to seeing them all again on stage.

[Inavaru]

Soundcheck has the most fantastic showcasing of the music industry's top talent. Thanks for the uploads! I'm pretty happy to have recently stumbled across your series.

[jjaywill]

Going tonight to see Charles at The Ramshead in Annapolis Md. tonight.

[VeaonI]

Does anyone know who that trumpet player is???

[drakebloedje]

It's a shame they used so much reverb. Doesn't fit this type of music. Very good version otherwise :-)

[ascendantMethEnjoyer]

I disovered this man's music through the Metro in Chicago's website just last week.. I seen him live there last night. Powerful, beautiful performance. Maybe the greatest performance ive ever seen live. So much heart. So much Soul!
i keep seeing him on stage in my mind with his arms stretched towards the crowd saying "Chicagooo!! I Love Youuuu!"
I Love discovering beautiful music.. this has only 4, 235 views as i type this.. i hope i can come back and see that number in the millions