The singer posts a video of her covering 'Ain't No Sunshine' and 'Lovely Day', and accompanies it with a message in which she thanks Withers and wishes him a happy 77th birthday.
- Jul 9, 2015
AceShowbiz - Jhene Aiko paid musical tribute to Bill Withers in honor of his birthday. On Wednesday, July 8, four days after the soul legend turned 77, the singer posted on her YouTube channel a video of her covering his classic "Ain't No Sunshine".
Looking casual in a blue T-shirt while rocking dreadlocks, the 27-year-old star performs the track in what looks like her home studio while being backed by her guitarist Jeff. She also does her version of Withers' other legendary song, "Lovely Day".
To accompany the video, Aiko released a lengthy message in which she wished Withers a happy birthday, praised him and thanked him for inspiring her. "I'm getting older and I realize that I am just a compilation of all the great creators who came before me," she wrote. "Not only is it my duty, but it is also my pleasure to show my appreciation."
"Bill Wither's music has been blessing my ears since I was a baby," she continued. "I didn't know it then and not until recently did I understand that this man is responsible for some of the most beautiful, relatable, heart felt songs ever written. Bill is not only a genius songwriter, but he is an amazing singer and musician."
"One of the things that inspires me the most about Bill is his attention to lyrics and storytelling. It wasn't about his image, being flashy, or putting on a 'show.' For him, it was about the song. No fluff, just pure feeling. It was about connecting. It was about the music. And it is still about the music," she added. "Thank you Bill Withers for being so authentic. You are a true inspiration. Happy Birthday."
This isn't Aiko's first time to have paid homage to an artist who has inspired her. Last month, she recreated Tupac Shakur's iconic photos to commemorate his birthday.
