‘We crafted it from our hearts’: the Womack Sisters on continuing a great soul music dynasty

Backstage at a London festival, the Womack Sisters, a contemporary soul music trio, exude a palpable sense of dedication as they reflect on their commitment to continuing a profound musical dynasty. Zeimani, one of the sisters, described the transcendent experience of performing on stage, even amidst sweltering heat, stating, "You don’t feel anything on stage. You just feel amazing, like you’re floating." Her sister, BG, underscored their unwavering resolve, adding, "And we’re committed. You know, we were taught by professionals." This deep-seated commitment is intrinsically linked to their illustrious family heritage. Their parents were the acclaimed soul music duo Womack & Womack, responsible for a string of hits that defined an era of R&B and soul. Their uncle, Bobby Womack, was a towering figure in soul music, a Grammy-winning artist whose distinctive voice and songwriting left an indelible mark on the genre. Further back in their lineage, their grandfather was the legendary Sam Cooke, a pivotal artist often credited as one of the pioneers of soul music, whose influence on subsequent generations of musicians is immeasurable.

The Womack Sisters' path to embracing their ancestral calling was not a straightforward one. Prior to fully immersing themselves in the family business, they explored other avenues, including working as Uber drivers. During this period, they encountered a prevailing skepticism regarding the contemporary relevance of soul music, with some individuals suggesting that the genre had become obsolete. Despite these external doubts and the challenges of navigating a music industry that sometimes overlooks traditional genres, the sisters found their way back to their musical roots. This return was fueled by an intrinsic passion for the music and the enduring inspiration drawn from the monumental achievements of their predecessors. Their approach to their craft is characterized by a profound personal connection, as they describe their music as having been "crafted from our hearts," a testament to their genuine love for soul music and their desire to honor their lineage with authenticity and integrity. The Womack Sisters' dedication to soul music signifies a vital continuation of a significant cultural and artistic tradition, aiming to connect with audiences through the timeless appeal and emotional resonance of their sound. Their performances, marked by professionalism and a deep well of talent, serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring power of soul music and the Womack family's indelible contribution to its history.