Get ready for a soul-stirring conversation with one of the most powerful voices in modern R&B and soul. On this episode of Local Music Somewhere, DreamMaker Terry Hudson sits down with Larry Braggs — the electrifying former lead singer of Tower of Power, celebrated for his soaring vocals, unforgettable stage presence, and decades of shaping the sound of soul music.
Larry opens up about his early influences, the unforgettable stories from touring with Tower of Power, his experiences sharing the stage with legends like The Temptations and Four Tops, and the wisdom he’s gained from a life dedicated to music.
Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a lifelong fan of soul, or simply love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode is packed with inspiration, insight, and plenty of heart. Tune in for a conversation that goes beyond the spotlight to explore what it takes to keep the music alive — and to keep your voice and spirit strong through it all.
Catch Larry Braggs Live in Charlotte October 3rd at Middle C Jazz
October 3rd, experience Larry Braggs live at Middle C Jazz. With decades of experience performing with Tower of Power and The Temptations, Larry delivers a dynamic blend of funk, R&B, and soulful classics. His commanding stage presence and signature vocals make every performance unforgettable.
Middle C Jazz offers an intimate setting with world-class acoustics, perfect for connecting with the music and the energy of the night. Fans of live music won’t want to miss this special performance.
Larry Braggs - Touring Tales & Stage Stories
Larry Braggs on Local Music Somewhere: A Journey Through Legendary Soul and Funk
Charlotte, NC—rBeatz Radio’s Local Music Somewhere welcomed soul powerhouse Larry Braggs, celebrated for his work with Tower of Power and The Temptations, in an engaging episode hosted by Terry “Dreammaker” Hudson. Larry shared insights from his decades-long career, reflecting on early inspirations, performing with legendary bands, and offering practical advice for musicians navigating the industry.From Childhood Inspirations to Iconic Vocal Power
Larry’s love for music started early, as he recalled being encouraged by a second-grade music teacher to perform for his classmates. Early influences like Tom Jones, James Brown, the Jacksons, and soul greats Sam & Dave shaped his approach to singing and performance. He described the process of developing his own vocal identity: “People never really know how they sound until you listen to yourself back on tape. In your head, you sound like whoever you want, but when you get back on tape, it’s something different.” Larry’s story illustrates that self-awareness and critical listening are central to growing as a vocalist. Terry highlighted Larry’s ability to balance power with nuance, allowing him to handle both energetic funk numbers and slow ballads—skills that have defined his long-standing career.Learning From the Legends: Tower of Power and The Temptations
Larry joined Tower of Power at 37, describing the band’s intensity and precision: “Tower of Power will run you over and back up and run you over again if you can’t keep up. That band was a freight train with no brakes.” He emphasized that performing with Tower of Power required not just vocal power but a deep understanding of complex horn arrangements, precise timing, and the importance of discipline in rehearsal. Transitioning to The Temptations, Larry shared that he had six weeks of rigorous preparation to step into a role steeped in decades of legacy. Beyond the vocal challenges, he embraced choreography, harmonies, and the subtle nuances necessary to honor the group’s iconic sound.Mastering Longevity in the Music Industry
Larry reflected on the key factors that sustain a career in music: preparation, dedication, and continuous learning. “If you feel that you’ve learned all you can learn, it’s time for you to stop doing music.” He stressed memorization as a critical skill, not only for songs but for arrangements, ensuring musicians can perform consistently at a high level. He also underscored the importance of listening carefully to other instruments in the band to maintain harmony and cohesion, highlighting respect for fellow musicians as central to professional success.Solo Projects and Live Performance
Larry described his live performances as engaging, dynamic, and carefully crafted to maintain audience energy. With a full band, he blends Tower of Power classics and Temptations favorites, focusing on musical precision and audience connection. He highlighted the importance of stage presence and interaction, noting that a performance is as much about energy and choreography as it is about vocal ability.Takeaways from Larry Braggs on Music, Performance, and Career Success
- Develop Vocal Personality: Study multiple artists and merge influences into a unique sound.
- Master Your Craft: Memorize songs, understand arrangements, and rehearse thoroughly.
- Respect the Band: Every instrument contributes to the overall sound—listen actively.
- Stay Prepared: Discipline in rehearsal and punctuality are essential for professional musicians.
- Reinvent Yourself: Continuous learning keeps your music fresh and your career sustainable.
- Stage Presence Matters: Engage the audience and complement your vocal performance with choreography and energy.
- Explore Multiple Genres: Jazz, R&B, pop, blues, rock, and country all inform vocal style.
About Me – Larry Braggs
Larry Braggs is a passionate, powerful, and spiritual artist. With one of the most notable voices of our time, he is recognized as a workhorse in the music industry. With a vocal range of over three octaves, Larry commands the stage like no other and is respected and praised by his peers and fans worldwide.
For 14 years, Larry was the lead vocalist for the legendary soul band Tower of Power, and most recently, was the lead singer of one of the greatest R&B groups of all time, The Temptations. Larry has become one of the most sought-after singers in the business. He has also worked as an Adjunct Professor of Music at his alma mater, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Larry has provided vocals for greats like David Sanborn, Bob James, and Marcus Miller, among others.
Larry has recorded over 25 CDs, and his voice can be heard as a featured artist with artists such as The Winans, the late George Duke, and many others. As a classically trained tenor, Larry attributes his ability and work ethic to his family and teachers, who believed in him from an early age. Larry believes the messages we send in our music are a great responsibility…
“Music can set moods, but words are even more powerful. They can change a life for the better or worse; better is always better!”
Currently, Larry is hard at work writing, recording, and thrilling audiences nationally, as well as internationally. Bragg’s superb vocal abilities and electrifying stage presence make him a truly extraordinary entertainer.
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