Beverlei Brown

Beverlei Brown acquired her vocal talents from her mother, a participant in the church choir located in Birmingham, England. Once she reached a suitable age, Brown joined that same choir and advanced to the role of leader.

A solo appearance with the Clark Sisters at the gospel wailers’ concert in the U.K. provided an early platform. Soon afterward an opening emerged with the Fine Young Cannibals, who required gospel voices for an album; Brown’s contribution helped the band obtain a recording contract while also securing her a place on their worldwide promotional tour.

After the tour concluded she returned to Birmingham, completed her studies, and served as a receptionist at a law firm until beginning a two-year touring engagement with Ruby Turner.

Demand for her skills increased swiftly, resulting in work alongside Simply Red, Snap, Joe Cocker, the Brand New Heavies, Babyface, Chaka Khan, and other acts.

In 1996 she was invited to record the Gary Benson/Livingston Brown composition and production “On and On,” which became a U.K. club favorite; the finished album nevertheless stayed unreleased when the label folded.

Dome Records offered a contract two years later, prompting a move to London and extensive studio sessions. Brown co-wrote six tracks for Next to You, including the duet “Could It Be You” recorded with labelmate Dennis Taylor in New Jersey. The album enjoyed strong sales in Japan, whereas the U.K. edition added three further songs.