Soul singer Charles Bradley died on Saturday after battling stomach and liver cancer. He was 68.
Known for his Otis Redding-esque vocals, Bradley was a late-in-life star. He overcame a tumultuous family life and years of homelessness to become a professional musician at the age of 62, releasing No Time for Dreaming in 2011, after being discovered by Daptone Records founder Gabriel Roth. Bradley went on to release two more albums (2013’s Victim of Love and 2016’s Changes) and was the subject of a 2012 documentary, Soul of America, which tells the story of his inspiring rise.
The self-crowned “Screaming Eagle of Soul” made several stops in Madison in recent years. Bradley’s live performances were intimate and cathartic experiences that left you feeling like he was a member of your own family, or at least a close friend.
Bradley’s management has asked for donations to All Stars Project and Music Unites in lieu of flowers. To benefit these organizations, a screening of Soul of America will be held at the Majestic Theatre on Wednesday, Oct. 4. Come celebrate the extraordinary life and career of a once-in-a-generation talent, a guy who was undeniable proof that you’re never too old to live your dreams.
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