Marc Broussard: S.O.S. V. Songs of the ’50s Review

A few years back, I accidentally stumbled upon a great song called “My God” by an artist I had never heard of. His name was Marc Broussard, and the soulfulness of his voice sent me searching for more of his music. I’ve listened to many great vocalists over the years, but the ones who really stick out to me are the ones I classify as “real.” Marc Broussard is very “real,” and it is evident when you listen to samples of his music and vocal ability.

On his newest release, S.O.S. V: Songs of the ’50s, Marc Broussard displays his bravery and confidence by tackling some of modern music’s greatest tunes, made famous by some of its greatest vocalists. Born in Carencro, Louisiana, Broussard grew up as the son of Louisiana Hall of Fame guitarist Ted Broussard (of the band The Boogie Kings). He followed in his dad’s footsteps, becoming an exceptionally talented guitarist, writer, and vocalist in his own right. Now, with twelve studio albums, one live album, and three EPs behind him, he has forged his own path in the musical world.

Not only is Marc Broussard a superior musician, writer, and vocalist, but he is also a superior human being, choosing to lend his talents and time to those in need. He has aided victims of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, become involved with the United Way and Habitat for Humanity, and participated in the Entertain Our Troops tour in the Middle East. S.O.S. V: Songs of the ’50s is the fifth volume of recordings to benefit the nonprofit organization Love of People, whose mission is to help others grow in productive environments that improve community and family life.

This brand-new recording is filled with classics that most vocalists would not dare to tackle. However, Marc Broussard doesn’t just pull it off; he sings these songs like he owns them. S.O.S. V: Songs of the ’50s serves up eleven tracks of some of the best music ever written and performed.

Right up front, I will say that the musicians throughout this recording do a superb job of making it stand out and making it a joy to listen to, including guest appearances by Jimmy Hall and Delbert McClinton. It is difficult to pick favorites because every track is that good.

The album opens with the Ray Charles classic “Hallelujah I Love Her So.” I don’t think I’ve ever heard Ray Charles do a bad job singing anything, and he would certainly be proud of Broussard’s vocals on this one. What a great way to kick off the collection, and I dare you not to enjoy it.

Track number seven is a cover of Bruce Channel’s “Hey! Baby.” If you know, you know, and this song originally featured Delbert McClinton on harmonica in 1961. McClinton is still alive and kicking, and he makes a guest appearance on this new Broussard release. What more could you ask for? It is superb.

“Baby Girl” took me by surprise. I like to listen to the music first before doing anything else, and I just couldn’t place this song. It fit right in with the other classics, but it wasn’t ringing a bell. After doing a little digging, I discovered that track ten, “Baby Girl,” is a Marc Broussard original. I’ll just say, “Got me,” because it blended so well with the rest of the collection.

The final track is a cover of Nat King Cole’s “Smile,” and Broussard does a magnificent job on it. It may actually give you goosebumps.

Marc Broussard has that “something, something.” He comes across as someone with no pretense, but loaded with soul and talent. I knew from the time I first heard “My God” that he was going to be special, and he has proven that ever since. Not the kind of special that’s glamorous and self-centered, but the kind that comes from natural talent and a big heart.

Anyone who enjoys this recording should check out more of Broussard’s music, especially his appearance with Joe Bonamassa and Josh Smith on “Three O’Clock Blues.” Broussard will be touring in Europe during March and then returning to the States for dates in April and May. Go out and catch him live if you get the chance.

The Review: 9/10

Can’t Miss Tracks

– Hallelujah I Love Her So
– Hey Baby
– Baby Girl
– Smile

The Big Hit

– Hey Baby