Album Information Section
Album Title: Ken Burns Jazz: Definitive Billie Holiday
Artist: Billie Holiday
Original Release Date: 2000-11-07
Label: Verve
Genres: Jazz, Vocal Jazz
Track Listing:
- 1. I Cried for You (3:13)
- 2. What a Little Moonlight Can Do (3:00)
- 3. Me, Myself and I (2:37)
- 4. Without Your Love (2:54)
- 5. Strange Fruit (3:13)
- 6. Yesterdays (3:26)
- 7. Some Other Spring (3:04)
- 8. Solitude (3:15)
- 9. God Bless the Child (2:56)
- 10. Gloomy Sunday (3:11)
- 11. I Cover the Waterfront (2:57)
- 12. Trav’lin’ Light (3:20)
- 13. Lover Man (3:19)
- 14. Don’t Explain (3:25)
- 15. Good Morning, Heartache (3:09)
- 16. Autumn in New York (3:44)
- 17. Lady Sings the Blues (2:36)
- 18. Fine and Mellow (9:09)
- 19. You’ve Changed (3:17)
Recording Information
The compilation album “Ken Burns Jazz: Definitive Billie Holiday” was recorded primarily at several studios across the United States, with many tracks originating from the legendary Columbia Records studios. The recordings span various periods from the late 1930s to the early 1950s, capturing the evolution of Holiday’s sound and artistry. The album was produced by a team of experts in jazz production, although specific names are not detailed in the album credits. Notably, the album employs a mix of recording techniques that were standard for the era, including analog tape recording, which contributed to the warm sound characteristic of Holiday’s recordings.
One interesting production note is the inclusion of the track “Strange Fruit,” a powerful protest song that has been recognized for its haunting lyrics and strong emotional delivery. This track, along with others, showcases the stark and poignant themes that were prevalent during Holiday’s career, reflecting social issues and personal struggles.
Band Context
During the time period leading up to the release of “Ken Burns Jazz: Definitive Billie Holiday,” Billie Holiday was already a significant figure in the jazz world, renowned for her unique vocal style and emotive interpretations of songs. By the late 1990s, her legacy was being celebrated and reassessed in light of her influence on jazz and popular music. Holiday’s career had seen numerous ups and downs, including battles with addiction and personal strife, yet she remained a beloved icon.
The compilation features Holiday’s recordings with various accompanying musicians, including her collaborations with prominent figures like Lester Young and Teddy Wilson, who played crucial roles in shaping her sound. Although the album is a compilation rather than a band recording, it reflects the breadth of her work and the collaborative spirit of the jazz genre during her active years.
Prior to this album’s release, there had been a resurgence of interest in jazz and its historical figures, partly due to Ken Burns’ documentary series on jazz, which introduced new audiences to the genre. This contextual backdrop created an environment ripe for the release of this definitive collection, highlighting Holiday’s unparalleled contributions to music.
Track Commentary
“Ken Burns Jazz: Definitive Billie Holiday” features an impressive array of tracks that encapsulate Holiday’s artistry. The album opens with “I Cried for You,” showcasing her ability to convey deep emotion through her vocal delivery. This track, along with “What a Little Moonlight Can Do,” highlights her early style, characterized by a smooth yet poignant vocal presence.
One of the standout tracks, “Strange Fruit,” remains one of Holiday’s most impactful songs. Its haunting lyrics and profound message about racial injustice resonate powerfully, making it a landmark in American music history. The track “God Bless the Child,” another significant piece, further exemplifies her ability to blend personal narrative with broader social themes.
The album also includes “Lady Sings the Blues,” a song that has become synonymous with Holiday’s identity as an artist. This track, along with “Good Morning, Heartache” and “Fine and Mellow,” showcases her mastery in jazz ballads, blending elements of blues with jazz sensibilities. Each song contributes to the overall narrative of her life and experiences, creating a rich tapestry of sound and emotion.
Critical reception of the album has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising its comprehensive nature and the quality of the selected tracks. This compilation serves not only as a tribute to Billie Holiday’s legacy but also as an essential listening experience for both new listeners and long-time fans, cementing her place as a pivotal figure in jazz history.
