Soul icon Bobby Womack has spoken about his role on the new album by cartoon pop collective Gorillaz.
Bobby Womack began life as the lead singer in soul group The Valetinos. Their biggest hit ‘All Over Now’ was re-tooled by a certain Rolling Stones, before the songwriter began a celebrated solo career.
Honoured by soul fans with the affectionate name ‘The Poet’ his stunning voice and socially aware songwriting became hugely influential. Agreeing to appear on the new Gorillaz album, Bobby Womack has revealed his respect for the group.
Singing guest vocals on recent single ‘Stylo’ Bobby Womack compared Damon Albarn to some of his previous studio partners, including Jimi Hendrix and Ray Charles.
“He’s the same way (Hendrix and Charles were). He’s very creative and thinks way out there, trying things that people don’t try,” Womack explained to The Sun. Continuing, the soul icon revealed that “working with Gorillaz was different” than his time with other artists.
“There ain’t no egos, these guys are cool,” Womack claimed.
Released earlier this year, the new Gorillaz album ‘Plastic Beach’ flew straight into the charts. A massive critical success, other guest artists include members of De La Soul, rapper Mos Def and many more.
Gorillaz recently confirmed a lengthy British tour, with some guest stars set to join them when performing live. The collective recently performed at London’s Roundhouse venue, and are set to return to the capital for two shows at the vast O2 Arena.
“It’s a logistical nightmare,” admitted Damon Albarn. “You just don’t get too stressed and just accept that sometimes its gonna work out, sometimes it’s not!”
Gorillaz are set to play London’s O2 Arena on September 14th – 15th.
