BETTYE LaVETTE ‘Blackbirds’

$32.00 Inc GST

Available on backorder

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Description

On her new album ‘Blackbirds’ Grammy nominated blueswoman Bettye LaVette has chosen to record songs made famous by other black women, paying tribute to the legacy of the many iconic musicians who paved the hard road before her. This album shows that she has the talent and skills of interpretation to match even the best of them.

On opening song I Hold No Grudge she sings of forgiveness, and yet her voice is tough, uncompromising, defiant. Each note is lived in and raw. Originally sung by Nina Simone, that might seem like a hard act to follow but LaVette sings with a similar fearless ferocity.

One More Song is equally bruised. Sorrow and broken dreams are deep in the bones of these songs, which tells you much about the lived experience she shares with these singers. Written by long time Leonard Cohen collaborator Sharon Robinson, it’s an achingly beautiful song.

To be a truly great singer you have to have lived what you sing. To be a great interpreter of other people’s songs you must live twice. On Blackbirds LaVette has done just that, setting herself free to reach new heights.