Queens is killing the game. The freshman ABC series is impressing critics and viewers alike as we get to know the four leading ladies who once ruled the hip-hop charts in an alternate '90s universe. Of course, part of what's selling the series is that they recruited actual stars to play the titular group, including R&B darling Brandy. She proves to be the heart and soul of the ensemble as the hot-headed Naomi, and it's through her that we get the more heartfelt musical moments. That includes a new cover of Bill Withers' "Ain't No Sunshine."
Brandy's voice is one of the most remarkable in the business and a song like "Ain't No Sunshine" is a great showcase for it. Paired with just an acoustic guitar, she adds her own fire to the cover as she embraces the song's lyrics with an airy rasp while singing. The unexpectedly quiet musical arrangement also does wonders here. The original and many of its subsequent covers sometimes let the strings and other instruments do the heavy emoting. Having Brandy's voice be the star allows her to speak directly to the listener and pull on their heartstrings.
We're not sure how this particular cover will fit in the next episode, but best believe that we'll be tuning in to find out as Brandy, Eve, Naturi Naughton and Nadine Velazquez do their thing on another episode of Queens this Tuesday (November 9th). Until then, take a listen to the track below.
