Butterfly Black is a fresh new R&B duo consisting of GRAMMY Award-winning bassist/producer, Ben Williams, and Broadway’s Nala Syndee Winters. Not too long ago, they released an appealing black-and-white music video for their “Lifetime” single, directed by Lauren Desberg.
Butterfly Black – “Lifetime” music video
“This song represents love in its truest sense. Not just romanticism, but love of one’s self and accountability. I believe this would be the type of music that Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell would make in 2023. During the pandemic, I wanted to create music that reunited people. To get them to dance, love, and take care of one another again. I want our music to help with that. ‘Lifetime’ is a love anthem for today’s time.” – Nala Syndee Winters explained
‘Lifetime’ touches on the topic of love in all its forms – love of others, love of self, and even the importance of self-care through therapy. The lovable tune contains a relatable narrative and ear-pleasing vocals that draw upon the legacy of iconic male-female soul duos like Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell, Ike & Tina Turner, Ashford & Simpson, René & Angela, Peaches & Herb, and Yarborough & Peoples. Furthermore, “Lifetime” possesses bubbly, boogie-centric instrumentation flavored with neo-soul and R&B elements.
“Spent my lifetime, baby, getting ready for you.”
For many artists, the last few years of the pandemic have been transformative. Some have had to reinvent themselves to continue creating and engaging with their audiences in new virtual and/or social-distancing environments. Others had to reassess what was important to them in terms of creativity and the practicalities of sustaining a livelihood. Whatever the situation may be, it’s no surprise that as the world emerges from the pandemic, many artists will also re-emerge with new personas. Such was the case for Williams and Winters, who joined forces to create a fresh and electric new duo that honors a time that made you dance, love, and want to live your best life.
Butterfly Black – “I Just Wanna Love You” (Lyric Video)
The release of “Lifetime” follows Butterfly Black’s infectious debut single, “I Just Want To Love You,” a summery mid-tempo jam that recalls Leon Sylvers’ legendary production and songwriting work at SOLAR Records in the early ‘80s.
Reaction – “Butterfly Black” (Official Music Video)
Butterfly Black’s strength lies not only in the couple’s intoxicating musical chemistry that is evident both in the studio and onstage; it comes from their divergent individual artistic pasts.
The duo is currently at work on their debut five-song EP, due out later this year (2023). Also, they are gearing up for a series of performances both individually and as Butterfly Black. Next on the calendar is Winters’ solo performance at 54 Below in NYC on March 8th.
“Butterfly Black”
“I don’t see a lot of those duos existing nowadays. Having a true duo group, I think will be something special to present to people now.” – Ben Williams stated
Ben Williams is among the upper echelon of his contemporaries in the jazz scene. After winning the 2009 Thelonious Monk Institute International Jazz Competition, he has released a handful of critical-acclaimed solo albums and recorded and/or performed with numerous heavyweights such as Pat Metheny, David Sanborn, George Benson, Robert Glasper, Kamasi Washington, Jose James, among others.
Nala Syndee Winters is a commanding Broadway stage singer, dancer, and actor, who has performed in such defining productions as Hamilton, The Lion King, Pippin, Motown The Musical, and Jesus Christ Superstar. Before working on Broadway, she was a dancer for the New York Knicks basketball team and a hip-hop and soul singer, who worked with Grandmaster Flash on his 2009 album, “The Bridge.”
Butterfly Black – “Lifetime” single
We recommend adding Butterfly Black’s “Lifetime” single to your favorite R&B playlist. Also, let us know how you feel in the comment section below. Mel Blanc’s famous catchphrase, That’s All Folks! Thanks for reading another great article on Bong Mines Entertainment – the hot spot for new music and entertainment news. Always remember that (P) Positive, (E) Energy, (A) Always, (C) Creates, (E) Elevation (P.E.A.C.E). Contact us on social media via Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, or Facebook, and let us know what’s going on. Disclaimer: This post contains Apple Music affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking a link, we’ll collect a share of sales or other compensation.