The Memphis music scene has lost a treasured voice with the passing of soul singer and songwriter Don Bryant. According to WREG, Bryant, known for his hit song "I Can’t Stand the Rain" alongside his wife, Ann Peebles, died at the age of 83 on December 26. His contributions to the genre were recognized as recently as 2020 when he received a Grammy nomination for his blues album, "You Make Me Feel."
His legacy extends beyond his own performances, having written songs for soul legends such as Solomon Burke, Etta James, Otis Clay, and Albert King, Rolling Stone reported. Don Bryant’s career was marked by a vibrant history of musical evolution, from his early days singing with his father’s group, The Four Stars of Harmony, to his tenure at Memphis’ Hi Records, where his writing became instrumental in the careers of many artists.
Memphis-born Bryant absorbed the gospel sounds of the church from a young age and later became a noted figure in the secular music scene. As detailed in a 2021 interview with The Commercial Appeal, he transitioned from gospel to secular music in the '60s, determined to make a mark. Bryant was eventually spotlighted for his songwriting at Hi Records, home to artists like Al Green and O. V. Wright, contributing to the soulful tapestry of the Memphis music scene.
In expressing their grief, Bryant’s family shared, "Don loved sharing his music and songs with all of you and it gave him such great joy to perform and record new music. He was so appreciative of everyone who was part of his musical journey and who supported him along the way," a sentiment echoed across The Commercial Appeal, WREG, and Rolling Stone. Scott Bomar, the renowned film composer, and record producer, praised Bryant's remarkable connection with audiences and his incredible talent, noting he had "the privilege to know, just a wonderful human being and an incredible talent," according to The Commercial Appeal. Bryant's death is a profound loss not only to the Memphis community but to the larger tapestry of soul music history.
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