The singer performed three songs from this new album, Gospel According to PJ.
PJ Morton brought some needed and necessary praise to his second run on NPR’s Tiny Desk concert series.
Rallying his six-piece ensemble in a remote New Orleans studio space, the singer mostly played sideman in the performance of three songs from his new album, Gospel According to PJ, beaming in support from a number of singers where needed.
On the reggae-tinged opener, “So In Love,” Morton is assisted by Darrel “MusiqCity” Walls and Zacardi Cortez. On the more traditional gospel-anchored follow-through, “All in His Plan,” Morton takes the reigns, leading the band with a spirited and elastic vocal performance from behind the keys. And on the closing ballad, “Repay You,” Morton is joined by a dispatch from singer, J Moss, to cap the set. Morton’s new album, Gospel According to PJ, was released in August and has been nominated for “Best Gospel Album” at the upcoming 63rd Annual Grammy Awards, extending his career nods to 14. Last year, Morton walked away with the award for “Best R&B Song,” but was also nominated for “Best R&B Album” and “Best Traditional R&B Performance.”
As the year comes to a close, Tiny Desk has ramped up the at-home broadcasts. Recent episodes have included performances from Polo G, Jhené Aiko, and Spillage Village, running through songs from new projects, while others (Black Thought and Jeru The Damaja,) have used their set to debut new music.
Watch PJ Morton return to NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert below. Grab a copy of his new album, Gospel According to PJ, on vinyl today.