Joseph Clarke and his 12-year-old niece Bri’Anna Harper have been melting hearts around the world with their soulfully smooth vocal cover of Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell’s version of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” The song’s a true American classic, in every sense of the phrase.
Little did they know that their performance would touch thousands and thousands of people around the world.
They kick things off in what appears to be a living room, atop a suave brown leather couch. Dressed in street clothes, they look like normal, everyday people.
The moment Joseph opens his mouth, you just know it’s going to be special.
Wow.
The song choice is perfect, especially for the times.
“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” was originally written by Motown songwriting duo Ashford and Simpson in 1966. The original recording, featuring the vocals of Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, was released in 1967. The song peaked at 19 on the US charts.
Years later in 1970, famous American soul singer Diana Ross released her own version, peaking at number one on the charts. The song’s remained ingrained in the collective American psyche ever since.
Most know the song intimately, including its touching lyrics. The tune appears in a handful of memorable films, even playing an important role in the famous locker room scene in Remember the Titans.
Bri’Anna proceeds to layer her fine voice atop the instrumentals, adding a beautiful foil to Joseph’s lower registers.
She playfully points to the camera while mouthing the lyrics, “To keep me from getting to you.”
Both of their voices are incredibly strong. Joseph’s voice is a little more audible, but Bri’Anna’s got game, too. Her raw talent’s undeniable. She’s found a perfect home under Joseph’s vocal wings.
They proceed to sing the iconic chorus together. At this point they’re both belting.
Naturally, the song ends with numerous repetitions of the chorus, featuring both vocalists just like the original.
The dynamic duo end their performance with a soulful bang.
Their performance touched thousands around the world. Their YouTube and Instagram pages are filled with nothing but praise,
“Thank you so much for the tears of joy you gave me.”
Some of the comments are poetic,
“My ears, my heart, and the rest of me thanks you for this great moment of music!”
Listeners have nothing but the highest praise,
“I’m really blessed to witness something wonderful. Your voices are so warm and tender.”
Thank you Joseph and Bri’Anna for sharing your talents with the world, undoubtedly bringing smiles to countless faces. They should consider dropping an album in the near future. Just call it Goosebumps, because that’s what I get when I hear them sing together.
These days, we need music now more than ever.
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