What Soul Singer Charles Bradley Can Teach Us All About Life
Stay Humble
Charles Bradley, known as the “Screaming Eagle of Soul”, passed away Saturday at age 68 to stomach cancer. Raised in poverty and experiencing racism in the deep south, Bradley struggled as a traveling musician most of his career which usually included impersonating James Brown. It wasn’t until later in life in his early 60’s that Bradley achieved success with his 2011 debut album “No Time for Dreaming”.
He released three albums, was the subject of a documentary called Soul of America and garnered attention from almost everyone including Rolling Stone. In one of his last interviews with Esquire, writer Matt Miller asked Bradley what’s the most important lesson he learned in life. Bradley replied:
“My grandmother always told me that regardless of what the world gives you, stay humble. Stay strong in your beliefs, and be honest.” — Charles Bradley
Here was a man who experienced violence, living on the streets, essentially going unnoticed until releasing his debut album at 62 and his greatest lesson is to stay humble. Let Charles Bradley’s story be a lesson for all of us. Bradley’s story represents the power of perseverance.
We’re all on our own journey and have different struggles. There’s no telling when you’ll have your chance to taste hard-earned success. Stay humble.
RIP Charles Bradley
Thanks for reading. If you enjoyed this article, please click and hold the 👏 to say “thanks!” and help others find this article.
