David Hudson
David Hudson, a notable figure in the Southern Soul genre, was born on December 17, 1953, in Atlanta, Georgia. At the tender age of six, he tragically lost sight in his right eye, which shaped part of his life experience. His early introduction to music was influenced significantly by his mother, whose support and encouragement were pivotal in his development as a singer.
Hudson's musical journey began to take shape when he relocated to Miami in 1974, motivated by a personal tragedy—the death of his mother. This move not only marked a new chapter in his life but also provided him with opportunities to connect with the vibrant music scene in Florida. He became well-regarded for his soulful recordings, particularly through his work with the Alston and Waylo labels, where he honed his craft as an artist in the 70s and 80s.
He began as a drummer in high school and played with groups such as the Citations and the Wrecking Crew before moving to Miami in 1974. To secure his first record deal in Miami, Hudson famously recorded nearly 287 songs for T.K. Records before his debut album was released.
David Hudson's biggest single hit was "Honey, Honey," released in 1980. The song Peaked at #37 on the Billboard R&B Chart and at #59 on the Billboard Hot 100 in August 1980.
David Hudson's first album was titled "To You Honey, Honey with Love," released in 1980. The album was released on Alston Records, a subsidiary of the legendary Miami-based T.K. Records. It featured his most successful single, "Honey, Honey," and was the result of a rigorous selection process where Hudson reportedly recorded hundreds of songs for the label before they agreed to release a full-length project.
Hudson's pivotal work came in Memphis with Willie Mitchell at Royal Sound Studios, producing soulful tracks for the Waylo label. His 1987 album Nite And Day showcased this Memphis sound, but deeper cuts, including the lauded "(Girl I'm Coming Home To) Something Good," remained unreleased until Soul Junction Records issued The Royal Sessions.
Throughout his career, Hudson became known as an archetypal Southern soul singer. His music reflects the rich cultural influences of both Atlanta and Miami, blending elements of soul and funk to create a distinctive sound that resonated with many fans. His reputation grew as he continued to produce excellent recordings and perform with various musicians, often connected through local networks, such as with people he met in Miami, including police officer Fred Thomas.
Hudson experienced a period of personal struggle and health issues, including a nervous breakdown and recovery, before returning to music in the mid-2000s. As of the 2020s, he continues to perform and has expressed interest in gospel projects with his son, David James Hudson Jr., who is also a singer.
Night and Day
02 Now That Love Is Gone (Ed Adams, Julius Bradley, Willie Mitchell 3:59)
03 Love In The Fast Lane (Ed Adams, Willie Mitchell 4:21)
04 Just A Feelin' (Earl Randel, Willie Mitchell 4:17)
05 Let's Get Back Together (David Hudson, Willie Mitchell 3:54)
06 That's What Dreams Are Made Of (Ed Adams, Willie Mitchell 3:39)
07 You Make Me Feel (So Good Inside) (Lynda Harper 3:58)
08 Thin Line (Jackie Members, Richard Poindexter, Robert Poindexter 3:35)
09 Send Her Back (L. Harper, L. Johnson 4:08)
10 Night And Day (Lawrence E. Harper 4:26)
Label: Waylo – WAY 269507 2
Format: CD, Album
Country: US
Released: 1989
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Southern Soul
The album Nite & Day (sometimes spelled Night and Day) by Southern Soul artist David Hudson is a 1980s R&B and soul record known for its smooth melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and classic instrumentation, created under the guidance of producer Willie Mitchell.
It showcases Hudson's talent as a singer-songwriter within the Southern Soul genre. It was originally recorded for the Waylo label and was later re-released in various formats, including an audiophile reel tape version in November 2024, transferred directly from the master tapes. The songs depict themes of love, romance, and passion.
The album was engineered and remixed by Willie Mitchell and P. Michael Allen at the Royal Sound Studios and features electric bass, drums, guitar, and keyboards/synthesizers.
The music is firmly rooted in the Southern soul genre, characterized by mellow tones, soulful instrumentation, and a focus on themes of love and romance.
Critics and fans praise Hudson's mature and emotive delivery, noting his ability to draw listeners into the narrative of each song.
The album is noted for its enduring quality, with the recordings still sounding vivid and relevant years after they were made.
While originally released on vinyl and CD in the late 1980s on the Waylo and Timeless labels, the album has seen a resurgence in niche markets, including a high-end audiophile reel-to-reel tape version released by STS Analog in 2024.