What makes Be Good by Gregory Porter notable?

Be Good received widespread acclaim, further solidifying Porter's reputation in the jazz world. The album features a mix of original songs and classic interpretations, and it helped him win the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album in 2014 for its follow-up, Liquid Spirit, showcasing the impact of his growing influence on the genre. Released in 2012, Be Good is Gregory Porter's sophomore album, following his acclaimed debut, Liquid Spirit. At this point in his career, Porter was beginning to establish himself as a prominent voice in contemporary jazz and soul, building on the momentum from his earlier work and gaining critical recognition.

Be Good works well if you're into wave-like pacing with emotional peaks, heartfelt storytelling for intimate moments and soulful melodies for reflective listening.

How many songs are on Be Good?

Be Good has 12 tracks, running approximately 62 minutes.

Be Good

Gregory Porter · 2012

62 min · 12 tracks · blues

Soulful vocals entwined with rich jazz instrumentation create an intimate atmosphere that resonates with personal storytelling.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Be Good (Lion’s Song) — This track encapsulates Porter's unique blend of storytelling and soulful melodies, reflecting on resilience and hope amidst challenges.
→
Work Song — Porter's rendition highlights his powerful vocal range while delivering a poignant narrative about dedication and love through labor.
→
Mother’s Song — A heartfelt tribute to his mother, this track showcases Porter's emotional depth and ability to convey personal stories through music.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and skilled performances, creating an intimate atmosphere throughout.

What we noticed

Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies and intricate instrumental arrangements, particularly in the brass and piano sections.
The last three tracks shift to more introspective themes, with 'God Bless the Child' serving as a poignant closing piece.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

wave-like pacing with emotional peaks
heartfelt storytelling for intimate moments
soulful melodies for reflective listening
for evening relaxation

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification tracks
prefer fast-paced listening experiences

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2012, Be Good is Gregory Porter's sophomore album, following his acclaimed debut, Liquid Spirit. At this point in his career, Porter was beginning to establish himself as a prominent voice in contemporary jazz and soul, building on the momentum from his earlier work and gaining critical recognition.
Stylistic neighbors: Michael Kiwanuka· Leon Bridges· Andra Day