Willie Wright (musician)

Willie Wright (1939 – 2015) was an American soul and R&B singer and songwriter. He is best known for his privately pressed 1977 album Telling You the Truth, a lo-fi soul masterpiece that gained a cult following decades after its initial release.

Born in York, Alabama, Wright began singing in church and later performed in local clubs. He served in the military before relocating to Miami, Florida, where he released several singles in the 1960s on small independent labels. These early recordings showcased his smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics.

Frustrated with the music industry, Wright moved to Providence, Rhode Island, in the 1970s, where he worked as a janitor at Brown University. He self-financed and recorded Telling You the Truth in a small studio, selling copies at local shows and giving them away. The album featured stripped-down arrangements and introspective lyrics, exploring themes of love, loss, and social commentary.

Despite its initial obscurity, Telling You the Truth began to gain recognition in the late 1990s and early 2000s through word-of-mouth and online music communities. It was reissued by numerous labels, including Numero Group, introducing Wright's music to a wider audience. His honest and vulnerable songwriting resonated with listeners, establishing him as a significant figure in the soul music landscape.

Following the renewed interest in his music, Wright returned to performing, touring internationally and recording new material. He released the album This Is Not a Dream in 2009, further solidifying his reputation as a unique and enduring voice in soul music. Willie Wright continued to perform until his death in 2015.