Merry Clayton to Release New Album “Beautiful Scars”

Gospel Legend Merry Clayton to Release New Album “Beautiful Scars” on April 9th, 2021

One of the most acclaimed and recognizable voices of all time, Merry Clayton will release her first album in over 25 years, Beautiful Scars, April 9th on Motown Gospel/Capitol Records. Pre-orders are available on March 12th.

Produced by longtime producer and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Lou Adler, the album features new compositions written by Chris Martin and Diane Warren and covers of classic songs by Sam Cooke, Leon Russell and more. Compared to her previous albums, Beautiful Scars is a gospel-influenced project that brings her back to her roots as a church singer in her hometown of New Orleans.

While the inspiring music takes center stage, the story behind the album was one born in tragedy. In 2014, mere months after 20 Feet From Stardom, the phenomenal documentary in which she stars and won an Oscar – Merry was involved in a devastating car accident that claimed both of her legs and required a 5 month stay in the hospital. In a New York Times article chronicling her recovery, she stated “It’s not an easy task, but I am just so determined. If I was determined enough to make it out of that hospital alive and better, I can certainly forge straight ahead.”

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