From the beginning of his career, Maxwell has shown that live performance is a major component of who he is as an artist. Shortly after his debut, Maxwell’s Urban Hang Suite, he recorded an MTV Unplugged episode that still stands as one of the finest in the series. In fact, an audio recording of the show was released as an EP, and went on to sell over 500,000 copies.

Maxwell Ascended 20 Years Ago & We Haven’t Wondered About Soul Music Since (Video)

Last month, Maxwell simultaneously announced the arrival of blackSUMMERS’night, his first album in 7 years, and a Summer tour that would coincide with the album’s release. Last night, he appeared on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert to give a preview of what to expect with the album and the tour. Performing his new single “Lake By The Ocean,” Maxwell sounds as sharp and soulful as ever, and his silky rendition of the sensual song portends a long, hot Summer.