What’s up family? Chris Campbell here with The Progressive Underground, and it’s time for this week’s Pick of the Week. We’re shining the spotlight on Irene Renee — a vocalist, songwriter, and Detroit native whose journey through music is as rich as her voice.

She’s been singing since childhood, coming up in church choirs at Northwest and Glad Tidings COGIC in Detroit. She later took that love for music to Michigan State, where she danced, performed and eventually toured with MCM and the Hype Crew. After moving to New York, she hit the Apollo stage, sang at Café Wha?, and even plaudits and props from the New York music community.

Life took a few turns — motherhood, detours, comebacks — but the music never left her. Irene Renee re-emerged on NYC’s open mic scene, claimed wins in karaoke battles, and became a featured performer at the Sugar Shack and Zuppa Lounge. All of that led to the release of her independently produced debut album, “Serendipitous Experience.”

Her sound? Think Jill Scott meets Anita Baker with a twist of Cassandra Wilson — sultry, grounded, lyrical and real. We’ll dip into her musical vault and check out one of her signature singles. Here’s Irene Renee with “Smooth Step,” and its my Pick of the Week.

That was “Smooth Step” by Detroit native and soul songstress Irene Renee. If you’re feeling music like this, don’t miss The Progressive Underground — Saturday nights at 6 p.m. on 101.9 WDET. We serve up soul, nu-jazz, rare grooves, and b-side magic just for you. For the Progressive Underground, I’m Chris Campbell and until next time, stay soulful and stay tuned.

What’s up family? Chris Campbell here with The Progressive Underground, and it’s time for this week’s Pick of the Week. We’re shining the spotlight on Al Lindsey — a Detroit soul singer with a voice as smooth as velvet.

Born in Virginia and raised in Michigan, Lindsey first hit the stage while serving in the military, opening up shows for none other than Jimmy “J.J.” Walker from “Good Times.”

After his service, he came back to Detroit and broke out on his own, dropping solo projects since the late ‘80s, always keeping that classic soul vibe alive.

His latest single is called “It’s Gonna Be Alright” — and its my Pick of the Week. 

That was Al Lindsey with “It’s Gonna Be Alright” — pure grown folks soul for your spirit.

If you’re feeling music like this, don’t miss The Progressive Underground — Saturday nights at 6 p.m. on 101.9 WDET. We serve up soul, nu-jazz, rare grooves, and b-side magic just for you! I’m Chris Campbell. Stay tuned, stay soulful.

More from The Progressive Underground: 

• Pick of the Week (April 8): ‘Touching Toes’ by Olivia Dean
• Zo!, Tall Black Guy transcend genres with synergetic ‘Abstractions’
• Pick of the Week (Mar. 29): ‘2 Step in the Living Room’ by Terrace Martin & Alex Isley

This week on The Progressive Underground, we’re tuning in to rising UK powerhouse Olivia Dean.

With a voice that’s pure and expressive, and a songwriting style that cuts deep, she’s been making waves in the global R&B and soul scenes. Her live performances are the stuff of legend, and her debut album “Messy” is filled with gems. One of them is this beautiful acoustic-driven number “Touching Toes” which is my Pick of the Week.

“Touching Toes” proves why Olivia Dean is one of the most exciting new voices in music. If you love discovering fresh, forward-thinking artists, tune into The Progressive Underground every Saturday at 6p.m. on 101.9 WDET and wdet.org. For The Progressive Underground, I’m Chris Campbell. Keep your ears open and your soul tuned in!  Peace.

More from The Progressive Underground: 

• Zo!, Tall Black Guy transcend genres with synergetic ‘Abstractions’
• Pick of the Week (Mar. 29): ‘2 Step in the Living Room’ by Terrace Martin & Alex Isley
• Pick of the Week (Mar. 22): ‘Good Vibes’ by The Pocket Queen ft. Duckwrth