American Epic

The American folk and blues singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Louisiana. Renowned for his virtuosity on the 12-string guitar, piano, mandolin, harmonica, violin, and melodeon.

I Love My Whiskey

Commenting on how Lead Belly got his name, BBB believed it stemmed from a rumored habit of pretending to have a "Stomach weighted down by lead," lying in the shade when the chain gang should be working. In 1966, they appeared together on a compilation called "A Treasury of Folk Music." Lead Belly's influence extended to John Lennon, who admired his work. Additionally, Lead Belly and Louis Armstrong were featured in "Swinging the Dream," a jazz adaptation of Shakespeare's "Midsummer Night's Dream," set in New Orleans.

I Feel Good

JLH learned his signature style from stepfather William Moore, ran away at 14 to perform in Memphis. "Boogie Chillen" launched his career. He recorded with various studios, gained fame after American Folk Blues Festival. Collaborated with rock acts, won 5 Grammys. Praised Big Bill Boonzy's influence, admired The Beatles for popularizing blues.

Greatest Hits

In JLH's 1995 Chill Out album, three iconic musicians converged: Carlos, Van, and John Lee Hooker. Carlos, deeply inspired by JLH, finally met him in the 80s when they were both residing in the Bay Area. During their jam sessions, JLH would suggest, "Let's take it to the street," but Carlos countered, "No John, let's take it to the alley," to which JLH playfully added, "Why stop there? Let's go to the swamp!" Their musical bond grew stronger, leading Carlos to contribute his songwriting and playing skills to JLH's album, "The Healer."

Asiral Weeks

In his band Them, they covered Dylan's "It's All Over Now Baby Blue," and later, in '71, he incorporated "Just Like A Woman" into his setlist. Their collaboration was captured on film during a performance in Greece, titled "One Irish Rover." In '98, he toured alongside Joni Mitchell, and Leadbelly's influence shaped his musical journey. With an impressive record collection, thanks to his father, he discovered classics like "Goodnight Irene." Additionally, in '98, he recorded with Lonnie Donegan.

Bob Dylan

He recounted a pivotal moment when a stranger handed him a Leadbelly record, featuring the song "Cottofileds." That encounter proved transformative, instantly transporting him to an unknown world. It was as if an explosion of light shattered the darkness, illuminating his path. The impact was profound, as if someone had laid hands on him. Overwhelmed by its resonance, he played that record at least a hundred times, forever shaping his musical journey.

Looking for a Home

Odetta's 2002 album "Looking for a Home" paid tribute to Lead Belly, nominated for a WC Handy award. She greatly influenced Bob Dylan, who credited her for sparking his interest in folk singing. She also covered Lead Belly's songs, and George Harrison recognized Lead Belly's impact on the Beatles' formation and praised Elvis Costello's talent.

Punch the Clock

He described Astral Weeks as "the most adventurous record made in the rock medium." Elvis paid homage to Van Morrison by covering "Full Force Gale" on his 1995 album Kojak Variety, and the same song also appeared on the 1994 tribute album No Prima Donna: The Songs of Van Morrison.

Achtung Baby

Bono acknowledged Elvis, along with Neu! and Kraftwerk, as one of the band's primary influences. He recalled seeing Elvis perform at the Stella Cinema in a Dublin suburb, saying, "You blew our minds! And everyone who was there formed a band!”

Loose Change

In 2019, he surpassed U2's record for the highest-grossing live tour of all time. Among his influences, he credits Van Morrison, recalling his love for the song "Irish Heartbeat" by Van Morrison and The Chieftains in 1988, a track he cherished and listened to during road trips with his parents. Damien Rice had a significant impact on him, and he holds a tattoo of Damien Rice's autograph, a keepsake from when he met the artist at the age of 11. Elvis Costello praised Ed, describing him as very talented and sincere.

Southern Nights

Allen Toussaint was a prominent producer, writer, and arranger, as well as a skilled piano player. He also owned the legendary Sea-Saint Studios in Gentilly, which unfortunately suffered destruction during Hurricane Katrina.

Action Speaks Louder Than Words

Chocolate Milk served as the studio band for Allen Toussaint following his collaboration with The Meters. Additionally, they played a pivotal role as the featured live band on his album recorded at Jazz Fest in 1976.

Nightbirds

The album "Nightbirds" was recorded at Sea-Saint Studios and produced by Allen Toussaint. This album prominently featured their biggest hit, "Lady Marmalade," which tells the story of a woman involved in the nighttime scene of New Orleans.

In the Right Place

"In the Right Place," a seminal album produced and engineered by Allen Toussaint, featured his versatile skills on piano, guitar, congas, and backing vocals. The Meters served as the studio band. The album included the popular track "Such A Night," performed by Dr. John in Martin Scorsese's "The Last Waltz."

All Time Greatest Hits

Al Hirt made his stage debut at the age of 6 at the Saenger Theatre, performing with the Junior Police Band. He served as a bugler in the army and later toured with renowned bandleaders like Benny Goodman, Tommy Dorsey, and Jimmy Dorsey. Hirt played a significant role in popularizing Allen Toussaint's composition "Java," turning it into a national hit.

The Best Of The O'Jays

The O’Jays covered "Lipstick Traces" in 1965, making it one of the earliest renditions of the song. They showcased their live performance of the track on the show Shivaree, hosted by Gene Weed, a prominent nighttime DJ in Los Angeles who later became a producer for Dick Clark Productions. The band also recorded "Fortune Teller," originally the B-side of Benny Spellman's "Lipstick Traces." Allen Toussaint was the producer and writer of this song.

Venus and Mars

Paul McCartney utilized Sea-Saint Studios to record a portion of his album "Venus and Mars." Allen Toussaint played on the track "Venus and Mars/Rock Show," and he also contributed the horn arrangements for the entire album.

Ya Ya

Lee Dorsey's biggest hit was "Working in a Coal Mine," a song written by Allen Toussaint. Many of Lee's recordings were produced by Toussaint, with The Meters serving as his backing band. Some notable tracks from their collaboration include "Get Out My Life, Woman," "Holy Cow," and "Yes We Can," which later became a hit for the Pointer Sisters.

Desire

"Freedom for the Stallion" is a song written by Allen Toussaint, which was covered by Bob Dylan. In concert, Allen Toussaint performed a rendition of "Mama, You Been on My Mind." Both Toussaint and Dylan, along with Dr. John and other legendary artists, performed in The Band's concert film "The Last Waltz," directed by Martin Scorsese.

My Future Is My Past

Walter Wolfman Washington’s debut performance took place at the Apollo, where they played alongside Lee Dorsey. Washington's cousin, Ernie K. Doe, achieved fame with Allen Toussaint's composition "Mother-in-Law." Washington spent several years providing musical support for Irma Thomas, as well as his cousins Guitar Slim and Lightning Slim.

Struttin

The Meters served as Allen's studio band, contributing to numerous iconic hits produced at Sea-Saint Studio. The Meters' rhythmic prowess and innovative sound played a significant role in shaping the landscape of funk and soul music, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. Their contributions to Allen's productions elevated the songs to new heights, establishing both the Meters and Allen Toussaint as true pioneers of their craft.

Various Artists

Many of the artists featured in this collection have either performed alongside, recorded with, or been produced by Allen Toussaint. It showcases the appreciation and admiration from abroad, in this case, the British, for the incredible and distinctly American, particularly New Orleanian, influence that we sometimes overlook.

The Power And The Glory

Throughout her career, Jackson recorded numerous albums and singles, becoming one of the most influential gospel singers of all time. She was known for her deep, rich contralto voice and her ability to connect with audiences through her music.

Lullaby of Birdland

Released in 1954, the album takes its name from the famous jazz club in New York City, Birdland, where Fitzgerald frequently performed.

The album features Fitzgerald's signature scatting and improvisational skills, along with some of the most popular jazz standards of the time, such as "April in Paris" and "How High the Moon." The arrangements are characterized by their upbeat, swinging rhythms and the virtuosic performances of Fitzgerald and her backing musicians.

Della

Della Reese was discovered by Mahalia Jackson when she was just 13 years old. Jackson was impressed by Reese's singing ability and hired her to join her on tour. Reese has cited Jackson as a significant influence on her career and musical style.

Heat Wave

Martha Reeves is an American singer and songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist of the Motown girl group Martha and the Vandellas. Reeves has cited Della Reese as one of her major influences.

Reeves has also acknowledged Reese's influence in the naming of her group, the Vandellas. According to Reeves, the group's name was inspired by Della Reese and the street where Reeves grew up in Detroit, Van Dyke Avenue.

Aretha's Gold

When Aretha's mother passed away, Mahalia Jackson was among the few women who cared for her. Clara Ward was a significant influence on Aretha, and Mahalia was a significant influence on Clara. To add to the complexity, Clara was in a romantic relationship with Aretha's famous preacher father. Growing up in the church, Mahalia's voice was an integral part of her upbringing, and she also served as a mentor to Aretha.

You are Not Alone

Mavis first heard Mahalia Jackson when she was only 7 years old and would go on to play her records every day. Later, the Staples Singers covered "How I Got Over," a song made famous by Jackson. Mahalia mentored Mavis and gave her valuable advice on how to use her voice to its fullest potential.

Art Official Age

Prince was smitten with Mavis Staples' background vocals on Nona Hendryx's 1987 single "Baby Go-Go," which led him to sign her to his Paisley Park Records label. He was further impressed after watching the Mavis Singers' Soul To Soul Concert performance, which was filmed in Ghana in 1971. Prince even wrote a song titled "Blood Is Thicker Than Time" specifically for Mavis. The late music icon affectionately called her "Mama."

The Diary of Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys has cited Prince as a major influence, and even covered his song "How Come You Don't Call Me." Keys' mother also played jazz music for her on Sunday mornings, which helped shape her musical tastes and made her a fan of legends like Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, and Billie Holiday. This early exposure to jazz and soul music undoubtedly contributed to Keys' unique sound and style as a musician. Her passion for music and her dedication to her craft have made her one of the most successful and respected artists in contemporary music.

Lianne La Havas

Lianne La Havas is a British singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice and intricate guitar playing. She recorded with Prince on his album "Artificial Age" and was also a featured performer on his memorable Saturday Night Live performance. La Havas has named Alicia Keys as one of her influences, citing her as a source of inspiration for her own music.

Ella Mai

Ella Mai is a British singer and songwriter known for her smooth and soulful R&B sound. She has credited Alicia Keys as one of her biggest musical influences, and has been known to cover some of her songs during live performances.

Interestingly, Ella Mai was actually named after the legendary jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald, whose music was also a major influence on her upbringing. Her mother was a huge jazz fan, and even named Ella's brother after another jazz icon, Miles Davis.

Louis Armstrong Collected

A well-known artist based in New Orleans, Louis Armstrong influenced many individuals across various fields. This collection of records, however, highlights those who were vocally inspired by Louis.

Francis Albert Sinatra & Antonio Carlos Jobim

Frank Sinatra's phrasing was influenced by a range of musicians and singers, notably Louis Armstrong, with whom he collaborated and admired. Frank even included an extra verse in tribute to Louis in his cover of "Hello Dolly." He also played a part in introducing bossa nova through his work with Antonio Carlos Jobim and Joao Gilberto. The album "Getz/Gilberto," largely composed by Frank, was nominated for Album of the Year in 1968.

Somebody Up There Digs Me

​Often referred to as the "King of the Jukebox," Louis Jordan was known for his many duets with famous singers of his time, including Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, and Louis Armstrong. Jordan and Armstrong performed a great duet of "You Rascal You." Ray Charles cited Jordan as a primary influence, and Bill Haley once said that Jordan's work profoundly influenced his approach.

The Bessie Smith Story

Known as the Empress of the Blues, she was accompanied by Louis Armstrong as she was coming up. Together, they recorded five amazing songs in one session: "St. Louis Blues," "Reckless Blues," "Sobbin' Hearted Blues," "Cold In Hand Blues," and "You've Been a Good Ole Wagon." She significantly influenced fellow blues and jazz vocalists and started recording with Columbia in 1923. She worked tirelessly to become the highest-paid black entertainer, often accompanied by the finest musicians such as Coleman Hawkins, Fletcher Henderson, and Louis Armstrong.

Lullabies of Birdland

Dubbed "the First Lady of Song," Ella Fitzgerald played with Louis Armstrong, Louis Jordan, and Antonio Carlos Jobim, and inspired Nina Simone. Frank Sinatra once said, "Ella is the only performer with whom I've ever worked who made me nervous." Fitzgerald also talked about a time when she was playing at the Apollo and Billie Holiday was playing a block away at the Harlem Opera House. She and some of her fellow musicians went to catch Holiday's show between their own performances and even asked for her autograph backstage.

Billie Holiday

Influenced by Louis Armstrong and Bessie Smith, she once said she wanted her voice to sound like an instrument. Billie Holiday, also known as "Lady Day," earned her nickname from saxophone player Lester Young, who she frequently played with and called "Prez." Frank Sinatra once called her the greatest single influence on him, saying "Lady Day is unquestionably the most important influence on American popular singing in the last 20 years." Although she and Ella Fitzgerald were often in competition for gigs, they eventually became friends.

Dinah Washington

At the tender age of 18, she was taken to see Billie Holiday at the Garrick Stage Lounge in Chicago, and she wound up singing there herself. This is where Lionel Hampton discovered her and offered her first tour. She adored Holiday, and it is rumored that she paid for Holiday's funeral. She once said of Holiday, "She made me dream tall."

Back to Black

Amy had said her brother listened to "all the good stuff" and encouraged her to listen to Dinah Washington. "I learned how to sing from Dinah. There's no artist I regard higher," she once said.

100 Days, 100 Nights

Sharon played and sang backup for numerous artists, including the Soul Providers featuring Lee Fields on a track called "Switchblade." Gabriel Roth, who was also in the band, eventually created the Dap-Kings to back Sharon and went on to found Daptone Records. Amy Winehouse heard Sharon and borrowed the Dap-Kings for her seminal album "Back to Black," paving the way for more soul-inspired vocalists to be heard.

I Put A Spell On You

Similar to Sharon Jones, Nina Simone gained widespread recognition and success later in her career. She never felt fully embraced in America and spent her later years in France. Nina's music became a goldmine for hip hop artists to sample, and she was heavily influenced by Ella Fitzgerald. Some of her famous recordings include "Strange Fruit" and "I Loves You Porgy," which were already considered classics thanks to Billie Holiday's earlier versions.

Black Star

Many hip-hop artists have been inspired and influenced by Nina Simone as both an artist and an activist. Her song "Young, Gifted, and Black" was a tribute to her friend Lorraine Hansberry, who had written an autobiographical play with the same name. Weldon Irvine wrote the lyrics for the song, and he was also her bandleader for a time. He became a mentor to 90s hip-hop artists and played the keyboard on Mos Def and Talib Kweli's "Black Star" and Mos Def's "Black on Both Sides."