Merry Clayton Beautiful Scars Vinyl LP
 
Merry Clayton's legend is a formidable one: As detailed in the Oscar-and Grammy-winning 2013 documentary 20 Feet From Stardom, Merry has graced recordings and stages with legends such as Ray Charles (she became a Raelette at age 16), The Rolling Stones ("Gimme Shelter"), Carole King (Tapestry), Joe Cocker ("Feelin' Alright"), Lynyrd Skynyrd ("Sweet Home Alabama"), Stevie Wonder, Bob Dylan, Barbra Streisand, Aretha Franklin, Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, The Who, Neil Diamond, Elvis Presley and more.
 
Now, following a tragic accident that severely altered her life but couldn't dampen her incredible spirit, Merry Clayton – one of the most acclaimed and recognizable voices of all time – finds redemption and strength in the power of gospel music on her new album Beautiful Scars, out on Motown Gospel/Capitol Records.
 
Co-produced by lifelong friend, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Lou Adler, and legendary Gospel vocalist, instrumentalist and songwriter Terry Young, Beautiful Scars brings Merry back to her roots, growing up singing at New Zion Baptist Church in New Orleans, her father Reverend A.G. Williams Sr. Clayton's parish. Merry's early, formative experiences there cultivated her incredible voice, and established her faith - two gifts that have sustained her throughout her life's journey.
 
Recorded at Henson Studios (formerly the famed A&M Studios where many of Merry's most historic sessions took place) in Hollywood, Beautiful Scars finds Merry emboldened by His Word, mercy and eternal love – it's the most heartening and human record she has ever made.
 
While the inspiring music takes center stage, the story behind Beautiful Scars was born in tragedy. In 2014, mere months after 20 Feet From Stardom – the phenomenal film in which she stars – won the Oscar for Best Documentary, Merry was involved in a devastating car accident that claimed both of her legs, requiring a five-month hospital stay and four years of diligent rehabilitation.
 
Merry began discussing the possibility of recording again with Adler while still in the hospital. "I've been through the fire and the rain, but I made it through," she recalls saying. "I want people to know that there is healing and deliverance through anything. But you've got to trust God – put yourself in His hands." To which Adler responded: "That's all I needed to hear. We've got to get you some songs!"
 
Merry Clayton Beautiful Scars Track Listing:
 
1. A Song For You
2. Touch The Hem Of His Garment
3. Beautiful Scars
4. Love Is A Mighty River
5. God Is Love
6. Deliverance
7. Room At The Altar
8. He Made A Way
9. Oh What A Friend
10. Ooh Child Medley