Music Existence Because of Music, We Exist
Acclaimed West Virginia singer-songwriter Keith Wenger has announced his production debut as Keith Wenger & Friends. New single “I Need Your Love” marries Wenger’s seasoned writing and production skills to an array of top-tier talent fronted by award-winning L.A. soul/jazz vocalist Jamila Ford (Seal, Spiritualized etc.)
“I have many musical influences, but I tend to listen for great songs and melodies in particular,” said Wenger. “This one was probably influenced by Carole King, and I was listening to Nicolette Larson’s [1978 hit] ‘Lotta Love.’”
While Wenger recorded his parts and produced “I Need Your Love” at his home studio, his collaborators contributed remotely, under pandemic conditions. The track was mixed by Latin Grammy Winner and Grammy nominee Luis G. Diaz.
“I wrote this one in stages,” Wenger recalled. “Although the song is in the key of C, I wrote it around the bridge, which starts in D minor 7. That was the feel I wanted.”
Helmed by buoyant acoustic guitar and the tasteful piano of Emmy-winner John Lee Sanders, “I Need Your Love” connects through Ford’s intimate, smoldering vocals. The song’s warm, optimistic tone and universal message has perhaps never been so apt, as we begin to once again enjoy face-to-face connections.
“The familiar idea of the world bringing us down and the beauty of love to lift us up,” mulled Wenger, whose song “Love Your Stuff” was produced by the legendary Stuart Epps (Led Zeppelin, Oasis, Elton John etc.)
The drummer on “I Need Your Love” is Lajhi Hampden (American Idol, BET Awards etc.), with bass by Grammy nominee Isaac Wriston (2 Chainz, Chris Brown etc.). Percussion was provided by Larry Salzman, whose 1,000-plus TV/films placements include Walt Disney Studios, NBC, and ABC. Mezzo-soprano Ford was nominated for an Independent Music Award in the Best Soul/R&B album category for her 2010 full-length, Enough, and is the host of popular podcast The Working Singer.
“I Need Your Love” is available for streaming and download on all major platforms. For sync licensing contact: kawccg@yahoo.com
Twitter @KeithWenger5
