Veteran R&B flutist and arranger David Crawford returns this month with a burst of creative energy, releasing a vibrant instrumental interpretation of “Let’s Stay Together” on Friday (August 21) while also debuting his first children’s book, Kids Bible Compass, accompanied by an original musical companion project.
Crawford, whose career includes performing, producing, orchestrating, and arranging for icons such as Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, Mary J. Blige, Bill Withers, Isaac Hayes, and Vesta, brings a fresh perspective to Al Green’s 1971 classic No. 1 hit that became a hit again when recorded by Tina Turner in 1983. Crawford’s version lifts the ballad’s familiar longing into an upbeat, flute‑driven dancer with bright, whimsical nuances.
Although Crawford’s rendition radiates joy, his connection to the song began during a difficult chapter of his life.
“I was in love with an older woman, and a friend of mine in the same apartment complex was going through a breakup at the exact same time,” Crawford said. “We were devastated. We’d sit together, have a drink, and play Al Green records. ‘Let’s Stay Together’ became our crying song. Looking back, I wouldn’t trade that memory for anything. I still love the song, and I finally decided to record it.”
The single follows Crawford’s earlier 2026 release, “Africa Nouveau,” an original composition that will appear alongside “Let’s Stay Together” on his forthcoming debut album, Something Borrowed, Something New. Additional singles are planned ahead of the album’s release.
Crawford’s creative output this month also includes his first children’s book, Kids Bible Compass, which guides young readers through the Old and New Testaments. The book is paired with Singing the Books of the Bible, a musical companion designed to help children learn scripture through melody and storytelling.
Raised in Compton, California, Crawford earned his master’s degree in music from the California Institute of the Arts. His flute performance and recording credits include Stevie Wonder, Ahmad Jamal, and The Temptations along with orchestral appearances with the Afro American Chamber Music Society Orchestra, Santa Monica Symphony, and Burbank Philharmonic. Crawford arranged and conducted Rene & Angela’s two million-selling single, “My First Love.”
For more information, visit https://davidncrawford.com.
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