Carlton Jumel Smith - "Shake Hands All Over The World"

Carlton Jumel Smith has been a big player in the world of soul music for decades, but I only really got acquainted with this luminary in recent years. Thanks to his collaboration with Timmion Records, I was able to get my hands on a string of wonderful 7-inch singles that became staples in my DJ sets. This imprint pressed and released a series of beautiful 7-inch singles, including “I Can’t Love You Anymore,” “I Love Our Love Affair,” and “I’d Better,” in addition to several others, and if you’ve come see me spin, you’ve likely heard these songs and more. 

Smith isn’t one to stay dormant, so he’s kept busy in 2025 with some seriously dope tunes. His most recent release is more of the pure, feel-good soul that he’s best known for. Except this time, he’s aiming to unite the whole damn planet. His latest single, “Shake Hands All Over The World,” is a groovy, heartfelt anthem about connection and kindness, delivered with all the swagger and warmth we've come to expect from the Harlem-born soul man. “Shake Hands All Over The World” feels like it could’ve come out of a ‘70s soul session, but it’s got a message that hits hard today. It’s all about unity, empathy, and taking a second to actually connect with the people around you. Musically, it’s a total vibe—bright horns, a laid-back groove, and Carlton’s smooth-as-butter vocals front and center. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to dance a little, smile a little, and maybe even shake a few hands (real or metaphorical).

Check out the video for the track below!

“Shake Hands All Over The World” is out now via Hello Exactly Records. You can purchase it via Bandcamp. Keep up with Smith by following him on Instagram.