Originally released in 1969, ‘Turn Away from Darkness’ (TAFD) is a song for the ages about hope in the face of despair, sung by the incomparable Joyce Dunn. Piano accompaniment comes from the legendary Mac Rebennack (Dr. John). The track was produced by New Orleans’ Harold Battiste, Jr., with words and music by Jane McNealy.
Speaking about the track, Jane said:
‘Turn Away From Darkness,’ sung by Joyce Dunn, was released on Mercury Records in the late ’60s. To bring relevance to the present, I have merged this song with a video reflecting society’s eternal struggle to survive conflict and pain. As we face tomorrow, we face ourselves, but the foundation of hope is a flame that burns eternally, guiding us through darkness to peace.”
Hear it below
What a powerful song and one that demands several listens.
McNealy is a prolific composer/lyricist creating a blend of 1960s/’70s jazz/funk/soul. Publishing and recording over 300 songs, she also writes musicals and TV & film scores.
She has just launched her new record label Lo-Flo Records. The label is set to release the best of McNealy’s EXTENSIVE 40+ year catalog as well as brand NEW contemporary compositions.
Just released, TAFD is the first single from her forthcoming debut album ‘Running Around’ due out on October 2.