And you know Bilal’s got soul

There's one thing to read about or watch videos of how an artist develops, but it's another thing to actually witness an artist come into their own. I remember the first time I ever saw Bilal perform--way back in the early 00's at the Black Lily showcase in Philly.  I remember being entranced and startled, but not in a scary way but in an OH OH...Oooh, I'm excited kind of way. 

Even way back then Bilal had his own distinctive way about him --now lets fast forward to the present, he's not a seasoned pro, focused, driven and still sounds divine. Plus, he's the only male singer I want to EVER cover a Prince song......EVER!

I caught some of Bilal's show when he came to Washington DC at The Howard Theatre, here are a few shots from the show and I'm sure if you do a search you'll find video of him performing Prince's "The Beautiful Ones."