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Sings Bessie Smith [ Vinyl / 12" Album ]

Sings Bessie Smith

SKU: V71184 Barcode: 8436563181504
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Format: Vinyl / 12" Album

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  • Released Date: 17 Nov 2017

  • Genre: R&B/Soul

Our Take

Oh, LaVern Baker, you saucy minx, taking on the legendary blues queen Bessie Smith in your latest album. The audacity! The nerve! But oh, how sweet the results are. Baker effortlessly channels Smith's raw emotion and power, injecting her own modern sensibility into these classic tunes.

From the moment Baker's sultry voice caresses your ears in "Empty Bed Blues", you know you're in for a treat. The musical arrangements are tight, the production top-notch, and Baker's vocals are as smooth as silk. She effortlessly switches from playful to heart-wrenching, capturing the essence of Smith's blues in a way that feels both reverent and fresh.

Standout tracks like "Gimme a Pigfoot and a Bottle of Beer" and "Nobody Knows You When You're Down and Out" showcase Baker's range and skill, while her take on the iconic "St. Louis Blues" is simply jaw-dropping. The way she effortlessly navigates the intricate melodies and emotions of these songs is nothing short of masterful.

In short, LaVern Baker Sings Bessie Smith is a triumph. Baker honours the legacy of a true musical icon while making these songs her own. It's a nostalgic yet thoroughly modern experience that will leave you tapping your toes and yearning for more. Bravo, Ms. Baker, bravo.

Track Listing

Disc: 1
1. Gimme a Pigfoot
2. Baby Doll
3. On Revival Day
4. Money Blues
5. I Ain't Gonna Play No Second Fiddle
6. Back Water Blues
7. Empty Bed Blues
8. There'll Be a Hot Time in the Old Town Tonight
9. Nobody Knows When You're Down and Out
10. After You've Gone
11. Young Woman's Blues
12. Preaching the Blues

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About the artist

LaVern Baker

In the golden era of rhythm and blues, Lavern Baker was a force to be reckoned with. With a voice that could shake the foundations of any venue, Baker quickly rose to fame in the 1950s with hits like "Tweedle Dee" and "Jim Dandy". Born Delores Evans in Chicago in 1929, Baker's larger-than-life persona and powerhouse vocals set her apart from her peers. Her thrilling live performances were a sight to behold, as she effortlessly mixed soul, jazz, and rock and roll into a potent musical cocktail that left audiences begging for more. Despite facing discrimination and sexism in the music industry, Baker refused to back down, paving the way for future generations of female artists to make their mark. Her signature blend of sass and soul made her a beloved figure in the music world, earning her a spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991. Lavern Baker's influence can still be felt today, with artists like Amy Winehouse and Adele citing her as a major inspiration. Her timeless music continues to captivate listeners around the world, proving that true talent knows no boundaries. So the next time you're in need of a musical pick-me-up, just put on some Lavern Baker and let her electrifying voice take you on a journey back to the golden age of rock and roll.

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