The music world is mourning the loss of a Memphis soul legend. Don Bryant, the revered singer and songwriter best known for co-writing the timeless hit 'I Can't Stand the Rain', has died at the age of 83.
A Musical Journey from Church to Chart Success
His family confirmed the sad news on Boxing Day, sharing a heartfelt statement on social media. They wrote of his great joy in performing and his deep appreciation for everyone who supported his musical journey. The announcement was swiftly met with an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow artists alike, celebrating a life dedicated to song.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee in 1942, Bryant's musical roots were planted early. He began singing in church at just five years old before joining his father's family vocal group. His talent soon led him to form a gospel quartet for a high school radio show, eventually finding fame on the popular WLOK show hosted by Dick 'Cane' Cole.
As a teenager, he was already showcasing his songwriting prowess, penning 'I Got To Know' for The 5 Royales. He became a central figure at the iconic Hi Records, where he wrote for other artists while performing as the lead singer of The Four Kings, the front band for Willie Mitchell. His debut solo album, 'Precious Soul', was released in 1969.
The Legacy of a Prolific Songwriter
While he enjoyed a performing career, Bryant's primary focus became songwriting, amassing credits on over 150 songs. His work was recorded by soul and blues giants including Solomon Burke, Etta James, Otis Clay, and Albert King.
His most enduring legacy, however, is intertwined with singer Ann Peebles. He wrote '99 Pounds' and 'Do I Need You' for her before their legendary collaboration on 'I Can't Stand the Rain'. Released in 1973, the song became a classic, peaking at Number 38 on the Billboard Hot 100 and later being covered by Tina Turner, Seal, and sampled by Missy Elliott and Kaytranada.
Bryant once explained the song's unique perspective to Rolling Stone, noting that while many records were about wanting rain, this one was different. He and Peebles married in 1974, and he spent much of the following decade writing and opening for her.
A Triumphant Late-Career Renaissance
After focusing on gospel music and stepping back from public performance, Bryant experienced a remarkable renaissance. In 2017, he returned to the stage as a vocalist with the Memphis soul band The Bo-Keys.
This partnership led to his first album in nearly 50 years, 2017's 'Don’t Give Up on Love', which featured new material and reworked past hits. In 2020, their follow-up album 'You Make Me Feel' earned a Grammy Award nomination, cementing his status as a vital, enduring artist.
In a 2020 interview, Bryant reflected that music was "one of my greatest loves," a passion that allowed him to focus his mind. His journey from a church choir in Memphis to international recognition leaves behind a profound and soulful catalogue that continues to inspire.
