Uploaded April 2024 | Updated September 2026, 3 hours ago

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Purchase on Bandcamp:
funkydl.bandcamp.com/album/i-am-reuben

Stream on Spotify:
open.spotify.com/album/6iUUdMPaNZHG3ZQxvXCQY5?si=vpBKsOqGRjeRGgSPqSbI3g

Track List
00 00:00 Intro
01 00:27 Time
02 04:35 Guardian Angel
03 08:27 Retrospect
04 11:38 Celebrating Their Lives
05 14:54 Change Gears
06 18:44 So...
07 22:00 Thy Mother & Father
08 25:56 I am Reuben
09 26:58 Raised
10 30:35 Shackled Hearts

After the loss of his brother in 2022, Funky DL felt compelled to write an album inspired by the life and the spirit of his older sibling "Reuben".

Less than a year apart in age, the two were very close and DL was often captivated by the messages and lessons learnt from his brother.

The album positively explores the themes and topics of these lessons, including life, time, remembrance, reflection, loss, change, courage and respect; all encompassed with smooth, uplifting beats and powerful chord structures.

"I am Reuben" is a deeply relatable album for anyone who has lost someone, recognizing the importance of who that loved one was and the meaning they brought, not only into one's life, but also to the world.

The only guest feature of the album is Reuben himself, appearing on the title track. The recording was made in previous years, but archived on a hard-drive, never to be heard by all until now.

Funky DL has created a beautifully poignant and nourishing album, immortalizing his brother's name, image and voice; creating a requisite gesture that demonstrates his love for who Reuben was.

Written by N. Newman
except "I Am Reuben", written by R. Newman and N. Newman.

Produced, Mixed and Arranged by Funky DL for Washington Classics 2023.

Keyboards and Synthesizers by Xantoné Blacq
Additional Keyboards and Synthesizers by Funky DL
Electric Guitar by Ed Riches
Electric Guitar by Miles James
Bass Guitar by Sean Allen
Saxophone on "Retrospect" by Kevon KJ

Executive Producer: N. Newman
Co Executive Producers: C. Boothe & J. Marcella