It hasn’t all been easy for Charles Bradley. He’s had a tough life. His health has been deteriorating. And just recently he’s had to deal with the passing of his elderly mother. But, musically on the other hand, there has been a lot of good, and there’s been a lot to be thankful for. Charles Bradley is living proof that age has nothing to do with success, and neither do personal struggles.

His third album Changes is his latest release, on which he covers a Black Sabbath song of the same title, and is also an emotional love letter to the world (which makes sense, as the album’s opening track is his soulful version of “God Bless America”). And even though life has been difficult, what keeps him moving forward is being able to make music that he can share with the world. His love for music is his strength–a love that first began when he saw James Brown perform in Harlem at the Apollo Theatre, and eventually landed him a record deal on Daptone Records when he was 62 years old. 

No Time For Dreaming is the name of his first album release, followed by Victim of Love in 2013. And now with Changes he’s been on an impressive tour with his band, His Extraordinaires, to keep the funky-soul alive. Check out his emotionally-drenched video for “Changes” here.

Brooklyn Bowl

6/1

8 p.m.

$25

Tickets