While listening to Dido's album "Safe Trip Home" (which is a great record), I was mesmerized by the guy singing harmony and background on the song "Burning Love". After looking at the cd insert, I learned that it was a guy who goes by the name of Citizen Cope.
His real name is Clarence Greenwood, but goes by his psuedonym, Citizen Cope, and is great singer/songwriter. He has released three albums, Citizen Cope in 2002, The Clarence Greenwood Recordings in 2004, and Every Waking Moment in 2006. His music has been featured on many tv shows and movies, including: Scrubs, One Tree Hill, Entourage, Cold Case, Sleeper Cell, The Sentinal, as well as Pontiac commercials.
I haven't had a chance to listen to Every Waking Moment, but really enjoy Citizen Cope and The Clarence Greenwood Recodings. Citizen Cope's music is very chill and laid back. It is very relaxing and chilling. His lyrics are very deep and there is a great message in most of his songs. He is very deep and sings about issues that are real and affect us daily. He is very unique and his music lacks a specific genre. The are elements of singer/songwriter, reagee, pop, soul, and hip hop (think Mos Def, and a hint of Travis from Gym Class Heroes).
There are three songs that are standouts. "Bullet and a Target" was the song I heard that made me pick up his album and give it a spin. It's really catchy, has a great beat, and great lyrics. Another stand out track is "Hurricane Water". It's got a really funky beat, and some great production. "Fame" is another great song.
I could go on and on about Citizen Cope, or you can listen to it and form your own thoughts. And if you do, please comment and share.
"Bullet and a Target" Live:
"Bullet and a Target" Album cut (with scenes from Black Hawk Down - I don't know why!):
"Hurricane Waters":
"Fame":
"Salvation" (Live):
"If There's Love":
