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The Essential Recordings

The Essential Recordings

SKU: CD6346 Barcode: 0805520091657
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Format: CD / Album

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Our Take

If Harry Belafonte's music were a cocktail, it would be a potent mix of rum, soul, and a dash of calypso. The Essential Recordings serves as a masterclass in the art of storytelling through song, with Belafonte's smooth vocals transporting listeners to a world where every note is a journey.

From the infectious rhythms of "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)" to the poignant balladry of "Jamaica Farewell," this album showcases Belafonte's versatility as a musician and his ability to transcend genre boundaries with grace and charisma. His voice is like a warm hug on a rainy day, comforting and familiar yet full of surprises.

The Essential Recordings is a timeless collection that pays homage to Belafonte's legacy as a pioneer in blending traditional folk music with modern sensibilities. With each track, he invites us to dance, to reflect, and to simply enjoy the beauty of music in its purest form.

So grab a piña colada, kick back, and let Harry Belafonte serenade you with The Essential Recordings. It's a musical journey you won't soon forget, a reminder that sometimes all we need is a good tune and a little bit of magic to make the world a brighter place. Cheers to you, Mr. Belafonte, for giving us a soundtrack that will stand the test of time.

Track Listing

Disc: 1
1. Day-o (The Banana Boat Song)
2. Jamaica Farewell
3. Man Piaba
4. John Henry
5. Tol' My Captain
6. Delia
7. Suzanne (Every Night When the Sun Goes Down)
8. Matilda
9. Scarlet Ribbons
10. In That Great Getting Up Mornin'
11. Unchained Melody
12. Jump Down, Spin Around
13. Sylvie
14. God Bless the Child
15. Cotton Fields
16. Come Back, Liza
17. Man Smart (Woman Smarter)
18. Merci Bon Dieu
19. Once Was
20. Hava Nagila


Disc: 2
1. Island in the Sun
2. Danny Boy
3. Shenandoah
4. Cu Cu Ru Cu Cu Paloma
5. When the Saints Go Marching In
6. Lucy's Door
7. Don't Ever Love Me
8. Coconut Woman
9. Haiti Chérie
10. Judy Drowned
11. Angelique-o
12. A Fool for You
13. Losing Hand
14. One for My Baby (And One More for the Road)
15. Dolly Dawn
16. I Do Adore Her
17. Sinner's Prayer
18. All My Trials
19. Delia's Gone
20. Mary's Boy Child

Delivery & Returns

Delivery 

FREE UK delivery on orders over £20.

Orders under £20 - £2.99 Postage Fee.

Next Day Delivery and International Shipping Options Available.

When Will My Order Arrive?

Usually dispatched within 24 hours.

Standard Delivery is a Royal Mail Tracked 48 Service and usually arrives within 2-3 working days, including Saturdays.

Express Delivery is either Royal Mail Tracked 24, or DPD service, for delivery within 24 hours.

Order before 2pm for next day delivery.

We’ll aim to dispatch pre-orders so that you receive them on the release date.

For orders back in stock soon, we expect to receive more stock within a week and will dispatch your order as soon as the stock has arrived.

Returns

We’re happy to accept returns for unwanted items provided that they’re returned within 14 days of receipt, unopened, unused and in perfect condition.

About the artist

Harry Belafonte

Harry Belafonte, the legendary calypso singer, actor, and activist, has captivated audiences around the world with his infectious rhythms and smooth vocals. Known for hits such as "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)" and "Jamaica Farewell," Belafonte has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Born Harold George Belafonte Jr. on March 1, 1927, in Harlem, New York, Belafonte's early life was marked by poverty and hardship. However, he soon discovered his passion for music and began performing in local jazz clubs. Belafonte's career took off in the 1950s, when he released his debut album, "Calypso," which became the first album to sell over 1 million copies. With his smooth vocals and charismatic stage presence, Belafonte quickly became a household name. In addition to his music career, Belafonte also made a name for himself in Hollywood, starring in films such as "Carmen Jones" and "Island in the Sun." He used his platform to shine a light on social issues, becoming a prominent voice in the civil rights movement. Now in his nineties, Belafonte continues to inspire audiences with his timeless music and unwavering commitment to social justice. His legacy as a trailblazing artist and activist is truly unparalleled, and his influence can still be felt in the music industry today. So the next time you find yourself humming along to "Day-O," remember the man behind the music - the one and only Harry Belafonte.

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