Raymond Coats Honors Soul Royalty with “Gotta Do The Work” — A Stirring Ode to Legacy and Hustle

Some songs are more than just melodies—they’re missions. In “Gotta Do The Work,” Bay Area vocalist and songwriter Raymond Coats delivers a powerful tribute to Barrington Scott Bo Henderson, former lead singer of The Temptations, channeling decades of soul tradition into a track that’s as reverent as it is raw.

Coats has been carving out his own lane since 2011, bringing an unmistakable voice and emotional authenticity to every performance. But with this latest release, he’s stepping into a new realm—paying homage to a legend while affirming his own place in the lineage of soul music. “Gotta Do The Work” is exactly what the title suggests: a declaration of discipline, determination, and deep respect for the craft.

The song blends old-school R&B grooves with modern textures, but the heartbeat is pure vintage soul. Coats sings with grit and grace, every lyric laced with lived experience. There’s an urgency here—a knowingness that success doesn’t come from talent alone, but from the willingness to show up, push through, and stay true.

What elevates the track even further is its emotional core. It’s more than a dedication—it’s a dialogue between generations, with Raymond standing at the crossroads of influence and ambition. For fans of timeless soul and stories told with honesty, this one’s for you.

Stream “Gotta Do The Work” now on Spotify and experience the soul, sweat, and spirit behind every note.