Womack Sisters: Soul Legacy Reclaimed on Debut Album

The Womack Sisters, granddaughters of Sam Cooke and daughters of R&B duo Womack & Womack, have released their debut album, fulfilling a lifelong ambition.

After more than a decade of striving to gain recognition for traditional R&B, the sisters faced numerous rejections and pressures to adopt contemporary sounds. Their journey involved side jobs, including driving for Uber, to fund their musical aspirations.

The album's opening track, "Chauffeur," metaphorically represents their struggle to take control of their careers after years of external direction. This debut marks a culmination of their efforts to preserve and present their family's rich musical heritage on their own terms.

Their lineage includes soul icon Bobby Womack, and despite this heritage, they worked as backup singers and songwriters before emerging as a trio. Stars like SZA and Leon Bridges have praised their authentic sound, with Bridges noting their vital contribution to the resurgence of soul music.

Inspired by their family, including the Womack Brothers and the Valentinos, their music channels diverse influences from girl groups to gospel. The sisters describe their individual styles as complementary, creating a perfect blend for their sound. They are releasing their music via Daptone Records, known for championing throwback soul.

Their path wasn't straightforward, including periods of caregiving for ailing relatives like Cecil and Bobby Womack. They navigated industry obstacles, such as being advised to alter their sound significantly, even recording an album in a pop style. Despite these challenges, they remained committed to their artistic vision, funded by their own endeavors and inspired by their parents' self-reliance.

Their connection with Daptone Records producer Gabe Roth proved pivotal. Collaborations led to songs like "Chauffeur," which captured their experience. The album's sound was further shaped by suggestions like adding horns, reflecting their commitment to authenticity and embracing their influences, which they cite as the Womack Brothers.

Sixty years after their family's music began impacting culture, The Womack Sisters are proud to release a collection that honors their legacy, presented authentically and on their own terms. Their mother, Linda Womack, expressed her profound emotion upon hearing the finished work, bringing the sisters to tears.