Merry Clayton: Tiny Desk (Home) Concert

The Tiny Desk is working from home for the foreseeable future. Introducing NPR Music’s Tiny Desk (home) concerts, bringing you performances from across the country and the world. It’s the same spirit — stripped-down sets, an intimate setting — just a different space. Lauren Onkey | June 9, 2021 Merry Clayton’s Tiny Desk concert begins with the essentials. After a brief piano intro, she begins to sing “Beautiful Scars“ — the title track of her new album — in a powerful and knowing voice. That simple pairing commands attention: “I’ve been on the battlefield of life. / I’ve been through it. / But I just had to go through that to get to this.“ She sings in dialogue with five superb singers, all with serious gospel chops — including members of The Waters and Take 6 — and a band of seasoned pros. “Stand up and be proud of your scars,“ she sings. The vibe is relaxed, but purposeful. This performance is an inspiring comeback for Clayton, who has been making great music for almost 60 years. Clayton is one of rock’s