Who would have the gumption to beat out more well-established artists for Polaris longlist and JUNO award nominations with a debut full-length album? That someone would have to be Tanika Charles, who took the grooviest, sassiest elements of soul and rhythm and blues, and spun them into Soul Run, a collection of powerhouse songs that showcase her many winsome talents. Her keen ear for melody and lyrics, paired with thick, lush production and kickass vocals propelled Charles to the top of ‘best of’ lists everywhere. Now living in Toronto, this former Edmontonian garnered nominations for a second round of awards for her follow-up album. The Gumption carves a deeper path along the same vein: catchy, confident songs filled with hooks. And those hooks aren’t just melodic – you’ll find yourself snagged on her sharp lyrics in which she explores temptation, justice and power dynamics. Harrumph!
Biography by Chantal Vitalis
