Charles Bradley is no stranger to hard times. Born in Gainesville, Florida in 1948 and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Charles spent the better part of his childhood living on the streets. One of the more optimistic moments of his childhood came in 1962, when his sister took him to see James Brown at The Apollo. Brown’s energy formed a lasting impression on Charles.

He went home and immediately began practicing microphone tricks with a broom attached to a string, imitating the Godfather’s every move.

With the help and encouragement of fellow musician Thomas Brenneck, Charles wrote and recorded No Time for Breathing. Due out for international release on Dunham Records, the album draws influence from the tragic death of his brother, who was shot and killed by his nephew outside of his mother’s Brooklyn home. Charles Bradley spent most of his life dreaming for a better one, and now there is no more time for dreaming, just time for singing, dancing and loving.

Buy a Ticket to see Charles Bradley with School of Seven Bells, A Hawk and a Hacksaw and Dark Dark Dark

Tickets are no longer available for online purchase, but are available at the box office, north of Chicago on Noble.