DAMES BROWN ANNOUNCE DEBUT ALBUM ‘TAKE ME AS I AM’, PRESENTED BY THE LATE AMP FIDDLER

A soul-deep celebration of Detroit’s musical spirit and the enduring influence of the late Amp Fiddler, Dames Brown’s debut album bridges gospel, funk, and house into a timeless modern statement.

Amp Fiddler’s Final Project

Defected Records

January 21, 2026

Detroit’s powerhouse vocal trio Dames Brown — Athena Johnson, Teresa Marbury, and LaRae Starr — are set to release their long-awaited debut album, Take Me As I Am, on January 21, 2026, via Defected Records. The album stands as both a joyous celebration of Detroit’s musical heartbeat and a deeply personal tribute to their late mentor and producer, Amp Fiddler.

“To watch our seeds rooted in pure soul blossom into Take Me As I Am is sublime. It shows you exactly who we are — brilliant vocal musicians coming together as one to create a genuine, heartfelt album. Presented by our brother, Detroit’s own Amp Fiddler, this collection of songs offers a glimpse into our interpretation of house music, as it draws on the influences of techno, P-Funk, gospel, and 1970s soul. This organic, homegrown gem is a culmination of love and dedication — a musical sisterhood.” — Dames Brown.

Rooted deeply in Detroit’s musical lineage, Take Me As I Am captures the city’s spirit — from the grit of its streets to the warmth of its soul. Recorded primarily at Amp Fiddler’s home studio, the album radiates authenticity, featuring lush instrumentation, raw energy, and a sense of spontaneity that feels unmistakably alive.

The record’s collaborators include some of Detroit’s most respected figures: Andrés, Eddie Fowlkes, and Waajeed, with special appearances by Paul Randolph, Chris Bruce, and Will Sessions. Together, they help connect the dots between Detroit’s gospel roots, funk legacy, and house music future.

Each track reflects the trio’s lived experience — stories of love, life, and self-acceptance told through powerhouse vocals and unshakable groove. Highlights include “You’re The One For Me,” “Glory,” “What Would You Do,” and the title track “Take Me As I Am.” Following the album’s release, an exclusive 7” remix of “Take Me As I Am” by Detroit legend Moodymann will drop shortly after.

Dames Brown’s relationship with Defected Records runs nearly a decade deep, beginning with their breakout collaboration with Sophie Lloyd on “Calling Out,” followed by standout appearances on The Vision’s “Heaven” and Floorplan’s “Give Us Your Light.” Their unmistakable voices have also powered club anthems for Horse Meat Disco, Louie Vega & Josh Milan, and Folamour, earning the trio international acclaim across house, funk, and soul audiences.

On stage, Dames Brown embody Detroit’s magic — delivering shows that radiate joy, sisterhood, and connection. With upcoming live dates in Detroit, across North America, and beyond, the album marks a new chapter for a group that continues to define what it means to be timeless, unapologetic, and real.