Brenda Russell (born April 8, 1949 in Brooklyn, New York) is an African American singer-songwriter and keyboardist. Known for her eclectic musical style, her recordings have encompassed several different genres, including pop, soul, jazz and adult contemporary. As well as composing her own material, Russell's songwriting talents are often in demand by many other artists who, over the years, have included Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Earth, Wind & Fire, Donna Summer and Sting. "Piano in the Dark" is a song written and performed by Brenda Russell. It was a single from her album Get Here, released in February 2, 1988. Backing vocals by Joe Esposito, Grammy-nominated for Best pop Duo. It was her only charting single on the Billboard Hot 100, where it peaked at #6.Brenda Russell (born April 8, 1949 in Brooklyn, New York) is an African American singer-songwriter and keyboardist. Known for her eclectic musical style, her recordings have encompassed several different genres, including pop, soul, jazz and adult contemporary. As well as composing her own material, Russell's songwriting talents are often in demand by many other artists who, over the years,.