Biography
Among the enigmas surrounding the urban contemporary music landscape during the closing years of the 1980s and the opening of the 1990s stands David Peaston's struggle to establish himself firmly. His powerful, expansive vocal style draws from strong familial musical heritage, with his mother Martha Bass having performed as a member of the Clara Ward Singers and earned acclaim as a gospel artist, and his sister Fontella Bass boasting comparable achievements in gospel and soul music. Initially working as an educator, Peaston relocated from St. Louis to New York following his dismissal from that position in 1981. There, he took on session assignments and tried out for a part in the gospel production Don't Get God Started, in addition to seeking entry into the Apollo's renowned Amateur Night. By 1988, he had become a regular performer on the syndicated program Showtime at the Apollo, which paved the way for a recording contract with Geffen. The album Introducing...David Peaston, released in 1989, ranked among the most dynamic and soul-infused projects of its time, coinciding with tours alongside Gladys Knight across the United States and Gerald Alston in England. Transitioning to MCA, Peaston issued Mixed Emotions in 1991, yet he did not achieve the essential mainstream crossover visibility or a major urban success that might have brought him the acclaim warranted by his talents.
Albums
