Howard Hewett: An Iconic Voice, A Legendary Soul Still Inspiring the World An Exclusive Conversation with Howard Hewett

In 2026, Howard Hewett stands as more than a legendary vocalist, he is a living testament to the power of love, faith, positivity, and music that transcends time.

Revered across generations and continents, Hewett remains one of R&B and soul music’s most cherished voices.

From his groundbreaking years as the lead vocalist of the iconic group Shalamar to his celebrated solo career, his journey has been guided by authenticity, passion, and a deep connection with his audience.

With a career spanning decades, Howard Hewett continues to perform, create, and inspire.

His timeless music, including Shalamar classics such as “The Second Time Around,” “A Night to Remember,” “Make That Move,” and “This Is for the Lover in You,” along with solo favorites including “I’m for Real,” “Stay,” “Show Me,” and “Say Amen,” continues to touch generations of fans around the world.

Currently, Howard Hewett and Shalamar are celebrating a remarkable milestone, taking their legendary music to audiences throughout the United Kingdom with the “Gold Tour,” honoring the group’s 50th anniversary.

The tour features Howard Hewett, Jeffrey Daniel, and Carolyn Griffey, performing the group’s biggest anthems and timeless classics, with special guest Gwen Dickey, the iconic voice of Rose Royce.

Howard Hewett recently reflected on his incredible journey, the power of music, his fans, and why his passion for creating and performing remains stronger than ever.

Your career has spanned decades, and your music continues to inspire fans around the world.

When you reflect on your journey, what does it mean to see the impact your music has had?

Hewett says, “Throughout my life and career, one thing has remained constant, the incredible love and support I receive from my fans all around the world. It is a blessing I never take for granted.

Music has always been a way to connect with people, to share emotions, and to create moments that people can carry with them throughout their lives.

Knowing that my music can bring joy, healing, or simply a moment of peace to someone’s day is the greatest gift any artist could hope for.”

You helped create some of Shalamar’s most iconic songs, including “The Second Time Around,” “A Night to Remember,” “Make That Move,” and “This Is for the Lover in You.” Why do you think those songs continue to resonate with audiences today?

Hewett shares, “Those songs came from a place of honesty, passion, and joy. Great music has a way of connecting with people because it speaks to real experiences, love, relationships, celebration, and life.

The beautiful thing about those songs is that people continue to discover them.

They are not just memories from the past, they are still alive today. Seeing multiple generations singing those songs at concerts is something truly special.”

Shalamar remains beloved around the world. You, Jeffrey Daniel, and Carolyn Griffey are currently celebrating the group’s 50th anniversary with the “Gold Tour” in the United Kingdom.

What does this milestone mean to you?

Hewett says, “It is an incredible honor. To still be performing this music 50 years later and to see the love from fans around the world is something I am deeply grateful for.

The ‘Gold Tour’ is a celebration of the legacy of Shalamar, the music, the memories, and the connection we have built with fans throughout the years.

Performing these songs with Jeffrey and Carolyn and seeing audiences respond with so much energy reminds us how powerful this music continues to be.

We are also honored to have Gwen Dickey joining us. Her voice and her legacy with Rose Royce represent another incredible chapter in the history of soul and R&B music.”

You have also built an extraordinary solo career with songs like “I’m for Real,” “Stay,” “Show Me,” and “Say Amen.”

How important has it been to continue creating music beyond your success with Shalamar?

Hewett explains, “It has been a beautiful journey. Every chapter of my career has allowed me to express different parts of who I am as an artist and as a person. Songs like ‘I’m for Real’ and ‘Show Me’ allowed me to share my heart in a different way. ‘Say Amen’ represents my faith and my desire to encourage people. Music gives us an opportunity to tell stories, share experiences, and hopefully inspire someone along the way.”

You recently released a jazz interpretation of Stevie Wonder’s classic “Ribbon in the Sky.”

What inspired you to record this special tribute?

Hewett says, “Stevie Wonder is one of the greatest musical talents of all time, and ‘Ribbon in the Sky’ is such a beautiful song. I wanted to honor the spirit of that music while bringing my own interpretation to it.

The recording features incredible musicians, including saxophonist Ronnie Laws, vocalist Debra Laws, and keyboardist Larry Dunn. Being surrounded by such amazing talent made the experience even more meaningful.”

Faith and positivity have always been an important part of your life and music.

How do those values continue to influence you today?

Hewett shares, “Faith is the foundation of everything I do. It guides me, keeps me grounded, and reminds me to continue growing.

I believe in love, gratitude, forgiveness, and encouraging people. The messages I share are not just words, they come from my own experiences and my desire to spread something positive into the world.”

Your fans continue to support you across generations. What would you like to say to them?

Hewett says, “I want them to know how much I appreciate them. Their love and support have carried me through every season of my life.

Fans show up to concerts, share their stories about how songs like ‘Say Amen,’ ‘I’m for Real,’ and ‘Show Me’ have inspired or uplifted them, and they continue to keep the spirit of the music alive year after year.

That kind of devotion is rare, and I am so grateful to have such a loyal and loving community.”

What can fans expect from Howard Hewett moving forward?

Hewett says, “I am going to continue creating, performing, and sharing my music. I still have so much passion for what I do.

Whether I am performing my solo music or celebrating the incredible legacy of Shalamar, I want people to feel the love, the joy, and the message behind the music.”

Howard Hewett’s journey continues to be a story of purpose, passion, and perseverance.

His voice remains timeless, his music continues to inspire, and his legacy continues to grow.

For fans around the world, Howard Hewett is not only an iconic voice, he is a legendary soul whose music continues to bring people together.

Follow Howard Hewett’s journey, music, performances, and inspirational messages on Instagram at @howard_hewett.