The recordings included on the classic album Lady Sings the Blues come from two different studio dates, a complete session recorded in 1956, and four tunes from a 1954 date. An additional track from the latter session has also been added here as a bonus. The emphasis on both sessions is placed on Billie's singing. Although important musicians are present on both dates (Charlie Shavers, Tony Scott, Paul Quinichette and Wynton Kelly, on the 1956 session, and Harry "Sweets" Edison, Willie Smith and Barney Kessel, on the 1954 date), little room is left for any instrumental improvisation. THE COMPLETE ALBUM + 1 BONUS TRACK- 180-GRAM CRYSTAL CLEAR VINYL - LIMITED EDITION
This 1956 masterpiece captures Billie Holiday at her most raw and expressive, serving as a poignant musical companion to her autobiography of the same name. Reissued on 180-gram blue vinyl, this edition features soul-stirring classics like "Strange Fruit" and "God Bless the Child," showcasing her unparalleled ability to turn personal pain into timeless jazz.
Captured at the peak of her powers, this historic collection features the definitive recordings Billie Holiday made for the independent Commodore label between 1939 and 1944. The album is anchored by the haunting, revolutionary protest song "Strange Fruit" and showcases her emotive mastery across essential jazz standards like "I'll Be Seeing You" and "Fine and Mellow".
Vinyl LP pressing. The life and career of Billie Holiday was underscored by triumphs and tragedies. One of the greatest artists of her generation, no-one conveys deep emotion better than 'Lady Day'. Hers was a new jazz voice, influenced by jazz instrumentalists, with it's ability to manipulate tempo and phrasing in bold and enthralling ways. The great Frank Sinatra was both a friend and a fan of her music. He said of her in 1958, "With few exceptions, every major pop singer in the U.S. during her generation has been touched in some way by her genius. It is Billie who was, and still remains, the greatest single musical influence on me." In fact, her legacy carries across the generations, with artists such as Nina Simone, Joni Mitchell, and Amy Winehouse citing her as an influence. This collection traces an important six years of her early recording career which built the platform for the huge commercial success she enjoyed during the mid to late 40s, before she began to succumb to the lifestyle which eventually destroyed her. It features iconic and beautifully harrowing recordings such as "Summertime", "Strange Fruit" Night & Day", "God Bless The Child" and "Solitude", demonstrating her unique and unmistakable way of interpreting the songs. It is a fascinating and beguiling musical journey.
