Watch Jhené Aiko Absolutely Slay a Bill Withers Medley
Jhené Aiko pays tribute to the legend behind "Ain't No Sunshine" with a raw and emotional medley.
Bill Withers' "Ain't No Sunshine" is very likely one of the most instantly recognizable tracks in recorded history. The refrain is a second language for most of us, ubiquitous without ever losing its raw appeal. During his acceptance speech earlier this year at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, Withers was characteristically charming — playing down the power of "Ain't No Sunshine," "Lean on Me," and his slew of classics while also championing his famous aversion to dealing with the "antagonistic and redundant" A&R men of the Columbia era.
Currently on an admirably self-guided quest of music history appreciation and rediscovery, Jhené Aiko notes Withers as "not only a genius songwriter, but an amazing singer and musician." Following her much-discussed Tupac tribute, Aiko shared a masterful Bill Withers medley including stripped down renditions of the aforementioned "Ain't No Sunshine" and the hit "Lovely Day." Alongside its release, she shared a note with The FADER on the inspiration behind her ongoing journey through the past: