Rated "Brilliant" on New York Magazine's Approval Matrix axis, Xavier Smith's Ladies of Soul Tribute began initially as a cover song Xavier recorded and gifted his friends each Valentine’s Day, along with iconic album art meticulously recreated with Xavier morphing into the original. The love for these covers spread, and evolved into the tradition of assembling friends, musicians, and fans together each year to celebrate the songs.

Xavier’s music career began as a member of the Boys Choir of Harlem, with collaboration credits including Sir Paul McCartney, Scissor Sisters, Spike Lee, Poolside, D'Angelo, Rhiannon Giddens, Body Music, Horse Meat Disco, Everett Bradley, New Power Generation, Bob’s Burgers star John Roberts (Linda Belcher), Joan As Policewoman, Zeshan B, Michael Bolton, Luciano Pavorotti, Toshi Reagon, Sxip Shirey, and Losers Lounge, among others.

Photo credit: Scott Ewalt

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