This CD, released in 2001, is part of a comprehensive study of the early influences of
rock & roll
. The
blues
and
rhythm & blues
sound created by African American artists, as well as a few crossover Anglo musicians, in the late '30s, '40s, and the '50s, laid the foundation for what was to become
. It was a sound characterized by a throbbing drumbeat and sensual notes on piano and horns, often with lyrics to match its earthy quality. Volume six collects some notable recordings of the year 1950, just before the big
explosion caused by artists such as
Bill Haley & His Comets
Elvis Presley
. The compilation makes clear the great musical debt these artists, who became rich and famous, owed to earlier artists, many of whom remained poor and obscure. Nonetheless, the music is great as both an educational and listening experience. Among the cast of artists are some who are still well known, including
Ruth Brown
,
Dave Bartholomew
Fats Domino
Hank Snow
Red Foley
LaVern Baker
Wynonie Harris
, and
Tennessee Ernie Ford
. But the recordings dig deeper in the archives for gems by little-known greats such as
Ben Webster
Harry "Sweets" Edison
Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis
Annie Laurie
Cotton Roberts
Lefty Frizzell
. The listener can be edified by such tunes as
"You're Fine but Not My Kind,"
"Shine, Shave, & Shower,"
"I'll Be Jumped up and Down."
When the album is over, there will be a greater appreciation for the many artists who contributed to making
the phenomenon that shaped a generation and still influences music. ~ Rose of Sharon Witmer