Reviewers talk about music from PREACHER MAN - VOL. 1 …
“What makes Preacher Man, Vol. 1 so striking is its sincerity. This is the work of an artist rediscovering his purpose through sound. Every lyric feels earned, every groove intentional. Oledude has transformed grief, activism, and love into something deeply human and spiritually elevating.”
AKTMUSIC.COM 11/26/25 *** Chris Oledude’s “Turning Tables”: A Funk-Driven Call for Justice Wrapped in Soul, Grit, and Truth
"Co-written with Christopher R. Owens and Dr. Lora-Ellen McKinney, “Turning Tables” was born from poetry, protest, and lived experience. McKinney’s social justice background, shaped by a lifetime of activism and a family rooted in the civil rights movement, gives the song its backbone. In contrast, Oledude’s musical arrangement gives it pulse. The track’s production is warm and organic, built with real players across Woodstock and New York City: Beau Brady’s steady drums, Greg DiBenedetto’s piercing lead guitar, and a vibrant choir of background vocalists who lift the chorus into a communal chant."
GOOD MUSIC RADAR 11/28/25 *** CHRIS OLEDUDE - TURNING TABLES
"Turning Tables opens with that chant that hits like a wall of voices:
“Stop the oligarchs today. Save our jobs, fight back today. They say cut back, we say fight back.”
The sound itself feels earthy. The drums and guitar move around each other like they’re keeping the same fire lit but from two sides. It’s rhythmic, almost communal, the kind of beat you feel in your chest before you even think about the lyrics. That’s why the message works — the music holds it up.
There’s also that clever biblical pull — not preachy, not moralising — just using language people already know to talk about basic rights and dignity. There’s something very smart about taking something sacred and grounding it in everyday survival like wages and labour. It makes the message hit harder.
The title Turning Tables makes complete sense once the track settles in. It isn’t about flipping the script for drama. It’s about shifting power. You can feel it in the way the lyrics push back against cuts and unfairness, and in the way the music keeps circling back to that idea of reclaiming something that’s been slipping away. It’s workers saying, “You don’t get to decide everything. Not anymore.” That’s the turn.
And beyond everything, this is a song for people. It’s not trying to be an anthem, but it becomes one because of what it’s saying. It sits right in that space where culture, politics and everyday life meet.
Turning Tables feels like a reminder that music has always been a way to fight back, and this track steps right into that lineage without hesitation.”
INDIEMUSICFLIX.COM/ 11/29/25 ***
“Chris Oledude is a trailblazer of new age thinking and music, and Turning Tables is a song that needs to be played across streets and workplaces. There is a quality to his music that resonates through time itself. Chris has a unique blend of sounds in his music, but it never fails to be people’s music. Which means that it has a lot of choir and chanting on the streets kind of influences it. If there was a genre one could assign to Chris’s music, it would be the song of the soil and people.
Turning Tables is a song that will go down in the books as one of the greats. It begins with a firm, loud chant: “Stop the oligarchs today.” Clearly, he is not holding back, and this is reflected in his music as well. The beats are bold, like the thumping of feet, and the cool and assertive jazz takes over. There is an element of devotion and dedication owed to the choir beats and in the lyrics as well. We all know the deep history shared between liberation, being working class and the Black community.
This song is proof that this connection runs deep. Lindsay Wilson’s voice only adds layers of depth in this song. This song is what happens when Rent and Barbershop have a baby. The problem is that we don’t have enough of Chris’s music, and we don’t have musicians like him, but that’s to his advantage! So what are you waiting for? Click on the links attached above and get your fair share of Chris Oledude as we wait for more of his music.”
JYLA BLOG 11/30/25 *** Chris Oledude – “TURNING TABLES”
“Oledude taps into the frustrations many people feel today—wage inequality, social stagnation, and a political climate that often seems stuck in place. His music reminds us that movements require movement, and this track delivers that propulsion with confidence and purpose... that feels both old school and unmistakably current… “TURNING TABLES” reminds listeners that music can energize, inspire, and challenge all at once. It’s not just a single—it’s a statement. And as part of Preacher Man – Vol. 1, it stands as an invitation for listeners to move, think, and take part in the ongoing push for justice."
ROCK ERA MAGAZINE 11/19/2025 *** TABLES MUST BE TURNED!
"What’s immediately striking is the song’s sense of lived experience. The production glows with 80s warmth, yet nothing about it feels nostalgic for nostalgia’s sake. Oledude and Lindsey Wilson move through the melody with a kind of shared urgency, their voices carrying the weight of stories shaped by real workers, real exhaustion, and real demands. Their harmonies don’t soften the message; if anything, they deepen its resonance.
“TURNING TABLES” speaks with a clarity that cuts straight to the heart of economic struggle. It sketches families stretched beyond their limits, paychecks that dissolve before the week is done, and a system that treats labor as disposable. But the track never collapses into despair; it rises. Each line feels like it’s meant to be shouted in rhythm, held up collectively, sung back with conviction.
The groove itself becomes its own form of protest. A tight rhythm section anchors the track while guitar lines flicker around the edges, giving the arrangement a sense of steady, purposeful motion. It’s music with a stride: confident, unhurried, but undeniably pressing forward. Oledude channels decades of musical lineage and political memory, yet spins it into something distinctly his own.
“TURNING TABLES” doesn’t simply ask for justice; it insists on momentum. It frames resistance not as an abstraction but as a dance of determination, a chorus built to be echoed in rooms far bigger than the studio that birthed it; and as a doorway into PREACHER MAN – VOL. 1, this track feels like the ignition spark: fiery, grooving, and anchored in purpose. Oledude isn’t just telling a story; he’s summoning a collective stance.
The message is unmistakable: tables must, indeed, be turned!"
LANDONBUFORD.COM 12/1/25 *** Chris Oledude changes the script with bold anthem “Turning Tables”
Chris Oledude shows us why he’s on the rise in his new single “Turning Tables.” It’s a lively, personal, and warm-up to his debut LP, “PREACHER MAN – VOL. 1.” As a result, Oledude has laid the groundwork for a body of work that is refreshing and thought-provoking, rekindling a longstanding relationship between music and its message.
“Turning Tables” is a collection of fun and funky music designed to get you dancing. Oledude has an excellent range in his music, as this song shows, and you’ll hear echoes of classic soul, warm gospel vibes, driving rhythms built on funk foundations, and contemporary stories that are achingly familiar yet entirely new.
This is just a reminder that music from the past continues to be the bedrock for addressing the present. Oledude’s flow is precise, and he projects a real vitality that turns sober truths into a call to action. Its high spirits are infectious and get even the most trash-averse folks dancing, while its lyrics make you think.
“Turning Tables” is the introductory cartel package for “PREACHER MAN – VOL. 1.” Oledude is showing brave, authentic, and purposeful work in a way that he claims is his position as an actor and messenger. Chris Oledude is bringing people together from many walks of life, regardless of age or lifestyle choices. He shows that music is still capable of healing, stirring, and challenging with “Turning Tables”.
SWIISPA 11/22/25 *** Chris Oledude’s “Turning Tables”: A Groove With Something to Say
"Chris Oledude’s new single, “Turning Tables,” is the kind of song that makes you straighten your back a little, like you suddenly remembered you meant to stand up for something today. The track comes in with a steady, funky groove that feels familiar in the best way. It has that warm, lived-in sound that reminds you of music people used to play loud on a Saturday morning when the windows were open and chores weren’t getting done.
The heart of the song is simple: people need fairness, and they’re tired of waiting for it. Oledude sings it plainly, without twisting it into anything fancy. Lindsey Wilson joins him, and together they turn the message into something you can move to. Their voices match well, like two friends who know how to finish each other’s sentences without trying.
What makes the song stand out is how real it feels. There’s no pretending, no sugarcoating. It’s straight talk with a beat…
“Turning Tables” also gives a strong hint of what Oledude is aiming for with his album ‘Preacher Man – Vol. 1′. He’s pulling together pieces from different chapters of his life. He’s mixing old influences with new energy. And he’s not afraid to speak up about the things people talk about behind closed doors. It’s rare to hear a song that feels this grounded while still keeping a sense of fun. If you need a song that says something real without beating you over the head, this is it. If you need a groove to walk a little faster to, this is it. And if you want a reminder that music can still push back against the way things are, then “Turning Tables” does that too."
VOLECHO MAGAZINE 11/24/25 *** ISSUE #7 - New Artists Redefining 2025: Chris Oledude - Turning Tables, Turning Heads
"…Turning Tables feels like a moment where message and groove meet in perfect balance. The third single from his debut album Preacher Man Vol. 1, the track hits with a confident, unhurried funk that moves with the bounce of early Curtis Mayfield while carrying the warmth of New York street-corner soul. Featuring a vibrant duet with Lindsey Wilson, the song plays like two friends trading truths at a block party—fiery, playful, and urgent.
What really makes Turning Tables hit even harder, though, is the path it traveled to get here. Sparked originally by writer Dr. Lora Ellen McKinney, the track moved through Oledude's live shows, rewrites, and long, careful studio sessions across Woodstock and lower Manhattan before settling into its final form…
Turning Tables also serves as an entrance into the greater universe of Preacher Man Vol. 1, an album that represents forty years of writing, yet feels strikingly present. It fits seamlessly beside Brittany Howard's "Stay High," The Roots' "You Got Me," or the soulful narrative style that carries through Spike Lee's Do the Right Thing.
Oledude isn't chasing trends; he's building a lane rooted in rhythm, truth, and community. On Turning Tables, that lane feels wide open."
TESTING MELODIES 11/22/25 *** Move to The Melodies of "TURNING TABLES" by Chris Oledude
"Self proclaimed and proud "boomer", Chris Oledude, born Chris Owens is a Brooklyn, New York based musician who brings a thrilling cocktail of blues, gospel, R&B, rock, and Broadway music together through his work, creating vivid and colorful sonic tapestries that grip the listener's souls. After losing his wife to cancer in 2019, Chris decided to use his art to spread positivity and joy amongst the listeners, rebranding himself with a new persona, "Chris Oledude". Giving a testament to his album "Preacher Man - Vol. 1," and we are here to talk about it.
Chris Oledude brings contagious energy with his latest energetic single, "TURNING TABLES", a song that you will remember for a long time… The song is a fun listen that compels one to move their feet and lose all worries… a breathtaking amalgamation of the best of classic soul, gospel, funk, and folk, woven together to create a sonic tapestry reminiscent of the likes of Curtis Mayfield, Stevie Wonder, and Gil Scott-Heron. Chris's lively voice adds to the fun factor of the song and makes it a favorite to turn up your mood. Lose yourself to the pleasure of funk, and listen to "TURNING TABLES" by Chris Oledude now!"
MUSIC FOR ALL 11/24/25 *** Chris Oledude reveals the opening credits for his new album
"You don't need to reinvent the wheel to deliver your own unique sound in music. In fact, it's impossible to do so anyway, as the field is already fully explored. Therefore, to deliver something with your own personality, you have to be good, talented, and creative. Having these qualities greatly increases the chance of sounding distinctive.
A good example of this is Chris Oledude, a composer, musician, and singer who bets on an interesting mix of sounds, where he excels at bringing funk, rock, and soul in the right measure, generating a consistent and very upbeat sound. With meticulous work, the track showcases his current socio-political concepts with the necessary music to confront them.
“TURNING TABLES”, which is the excellent introduction to the artist's debut album, “PREACHER MAN – VOL. 1”, delivers a work of well-crafted guitars, with catchy riffs, in addition to the groove of the rhythm section being just right, with a danceable and very well-executed beat.
The versatile vocal work is one of the album's highlights… making it sound more captivating with each listen. Imagine the whole album!"
FV MUSIC BLOG 11/24/25 *** Hot Picks 24/11/25 – The Best New Releases
"Hailing from New York, musician CHRIS OLEDUDE has released the outstanding single, ‘TURNING TABLES’. It is fueled by hard-hitting lyrics, charismatic performances and magnetic melodies. ‘TURNING TABLES’ is a powerful release that stays with the listener long after the music has ended."
INDIEOCLOCK / IN! 11/26/25 *** Chris Oledude mostra o poder do soul em faixa contagiante "Turning Tables" / Chris Oledude showcases the power of soul in the infectious track "Turning Tables"
"Turning Tables" tem a marca do Funk, groove do soul, tem um estilo que podemos pensar em um churrasco de almoço no domingo, com a família, dia ensolarado e essa faixa tocando para agitar a galera. As transições que ocorrem com linhas de guitarra mostra o poder do rock nessa canção, o conjunto de vozes traz a força das ruas, a canção comunica fortemente com o ouvinte.
"Turning Tables" has the mark of Funk, the groove of soul, a style that makes us think of a Sunday lunch barbecue with the family, a sunny day, and this track playing to get everyone going. The transitions that occur with guitar lines show the power of rock in this song, the whole thing. The song, with its powerful voices, conveys the strength of the streets and communicates strongly with the listener."
KARLISMYUNCLE 11/18/25 *** Chris Oledude shares a zeitgeist message with theatrical and anthemic new opus, Turning Tables
"We appreciate the powerful vocal presence of Lindsey Wilson on the track, and the instrumental performances are transcendental with astral electric guitar accompanying the theatrical delivery and choral vocals. The energy that builds is sublime, invigorating and inspiring – in line with the lyricism. ... Naturally, we are in awe – and grateful to Chris Oledude and his collaborators for creating such an important piece of music at a time when society needs it the most! We have added Turning Tables to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we anticipate the entirety of Chris Oledude‘s album, PREACHER MAN – VOL. 1."
PARKETT 11/26/25 *** Chris Oledude – Turning Tables
"With TURNING TABLES, Chris Oledude presents a vibrant, soul-infused statement that fuses groove, social reflection, and a clear artistic mission. As part of our webzine’s dedication to highlighting high-quality releases, this track stands out as an exciting preview of Oledude’s debut album PREACHER MAN – VOL. 1, offering listeners an engaging, funky introduction to the sound and purpose driving his creative resurgence."
ROADIE MUSIC 11/21/25 *** Chris Oledude: com o álbum “Preacher Man – Vol. 1” chegando, cantor apresenta o single “Turning Tables”
"The most recent work, "Turning Tables" also brings a certain groove, but is incisive in its criticism. This, therefore, is the single that will pave the way for the first full-length "Preacher Man – Vol. 1". This also has participation, in this case, that of singer Lindsey Wilson who gives an extra charm to the soul, gospel and funk lines of the track. This atmosphere is exactly what Oledude is looking for, a music that rescues the classic form of artists who shone in the golden age of Motown Records. Nice idea!"
EXTRAVAFRENCH 11/21/25 *** Quand la soul refait tourner le monde dans le bon sens avec Chris Oledude sur « Turning Tables »
"On sent, dans ce premier extrait, la promesse d’un album où les grooves seront des sermons doux et les refrains des revendications calmes. Oledude réactive une tradition qu’on pensait éteinte : celle où la musique de contestation était aussi musique de communion, où l’on danse pour se rappeler qu’on existe, qu’on tient debout, qu’on peut encore renverser la table sans renverser la tendresse."
"We feel, in this first single, the promise of an album where the grooves will be soft sermons and the choruses will be calm claims. Oledude reactivates a tradition that was thought to be extinct: the one where the music of protest was also the music of communion, where we dance to remember that we exist, that we stand upright, that we can still turn the table upside down without overturning tenderness."
MUSIC REVIEW WORLD 11/12/2025 *** Chris Oledude – Preacher Man – Vol. 1 (Album Review)
“Chris Oledude’s Preacher Man, Vol. 1 is not just an album; it’s a revival. The project is a culmination of decades of artistry, reflection, and activism from a musician who has lived through, and sung through, the turbulence of modern America. Born Chris Owens in Puerto Rico and raised in a deeply musical and socially conscious family, Oledude channels a lifetime of experience into an album that fuses groove with purpose.
From the opening moments, layered with ambient sounds of nature and a resonant voice calling out for freedom, you know you’re entering sacred territory. The first song sets the tone: soulful, introspective, and unafraid to wrestle with hard truths. Oledude’s vocal presence is rich and commanding, but never overbearing; it feels like he’s guiding a congregation through both sorrow and celebration.
Throughout the record, Oledude balances heartache with hope. Songs like “The Choice” and “Save the Children” confront systemic injustice and moral responsibility with lyrical precision and emotional weight. In contrast, “Rainbow Soul” and “If a Woman Had Made the World” bring joyful energy, built on funk-infused basslines, tight harmonies, and infectious optimism. These songs groove while carrying messages that stick long after the rhythm fades.
“Orange Blues 24,” one of the standout tracks, hits with raw urgency. Its blistering blues riffs and defiant tone recall protest traditions of earlier generations, yet it feels entirely of the moment. “No Crowns for Clowns,” meanwhile, pairs biting political critique with sharp, modern production. Both pieces demonstrate Oledude’s skill at translating righteous anger into art that moves the body as much as the mind.
Production-wise, Preacher Man, Vol. 1 shines. The mixes are clean and dynamic, with clear separation between instruments. Bass lines are warm and defined, while the layered vocal arrangements, sometimes choral, sometimes conversational, create depth and texture. Spoken-word passages appear throughout, offering moments of reflection amid the rhythmic pulse. The transitions between songs feel deliberate and cohesive, allowing the album to play like a continuous narrative rather than a collection of tracks.
There’s a deep reverence for musical history here: traces of classic soul, gospel, funk, and folk are interwoven into Oledude’s contemporary sound. The result is a sonic tapestry that nods to artists like Curtis Mayfield, Stevie Wonder, and Gil Scott-Heron, yet speaks with Oledude’s own unmistakable voice.
What makes Preacher Man, Vol. 1 so striking is its sincerity. This is the work of an artist rediscovering his purpose through sound. Every lyric feels earned, every groove intentional. Oledude has transformed grief, activism, and love into something deeply human and spiritually elevating.
In an era hungry for authenticity, Preacher Man, Vol. 1 stands tall, a vibrant, fearless collection that reminds listeners that music can still heal, challenge, and inspire. It’s a record that doesn’t just speak truth to power; it invites power to listen.
SCORE / Excellent – In the end, Preacher Man, Vol. 1 feels less like a debut and more like a long-awaited homecoming. Chris Oledude reclaims his voice not just as a musician but as a messenger, bridging generations, genres, and struggles with honesty and heart. His songs remind us that rhythm and resistance can coexist, and that hope can still move mountains.”