Denise King Announces Upcoming Album “People Get Ready”
Renowned singer Denise King is set to release her highly anticipated album “People Get Ready” on October 17, 2025, on CD and digital platforms, followed by a vinyl release on December 5, 2025. Known for her captivating renditions of jazz and Songbook classics, King takes a different approach on this album, delving into socially conscious songs from the genres of rock, blues, R&B, and folk music.
The album is a collection of powerful and moving music that showcases King’s passion and soul. Drawing inspiration from the spiritual and political themes of the songs, “People Get Ready” features iconic anthems of peace, unity, and civil rights by legendary songwriters such as Curtis Mayfield, Bob Dylan, Abbey Lincoln, and Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong.
Speaking about her experience with this project, Denise King reflects on her unexpected journey of covering songs by artists like Bob Dylan and the Animals. Despite her jazz background, she found joy in singing these songs because of the timeless and relevant messages they convey. The lyrics of these songs resonate with the realities of today as much as they did when they were first recorded.
The collaboration on “People Get Ready” was brought to life by a chance meeting between Denise King and Jazzbook label founder Seydou Barry. With musical arrangements by guitarist John Shannon and a talented group of musicians, including Vieux Kanté, Cliff Barnes, James Johnson III, and Chyco Siméon, the album seamlessly blends King’s expressive vocals with the poignant themes of the repertoire.
The album opens with the uplifting track “You Gotta Move,” setting a spirited tone that carries through the subsequent songs. From the reflective “Why Can’t We Live Together” to the powerful rendition of Edwin Starr’s protest classic “War,” the album navigates through themes of peace, war, and redemption with grace and sensitivity.
Denise King’s interpretation of songs like Abbey Lincoln’s “Throw It Away” and Nina Simone’s “Sinner Man” showcases her versatility as a vocalist. Each track on the album is a poignant testament to King’s artistry and her commitment to using music as a vehicle for social change and healing.
As King gears up for her U.S. and international tour dates in 2025, fans can look forward to experiencing the magic of “People Get Ready” live in concert. With a mix of gospel, R&B, and funk influences, the album promises to be a transformative journey for both the artist and her audience.
With “People Get Ready,” Denise King embarks on a new chapter in her music career, embracing the freedom to experiment while staying true to her artistic vision. As she prepares to share this soul-stirring album with the world, King’s commitment to making meaningful music shines through in every note and lyric.