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Although sidelined from the blues scene as a result of a stroke in 1993, Jessie Mae Hemphill's reputation has continued to grow. Having the distinction of twice winning the Handy Award for Best Traditional Female Blues Artist (1987 and 1988), Jessie Mae Hemphill has become one of the most original blues artists of the past twenty years.
These 15 previously unreleased tracks are from a period in her life when she was at her artistic peak. Get Right Blues captures Jessie Mae's early style and mostly traditional repertoire from 1979 as well as her more mature and experimental music from 1984 and 1985. About half of this CD consists of studio recordings and half from live performances.
Her guitar style, deeply rooted in the older fife and drum tradition of northern Mississippi, distinguishes her as an innovative musician, and one who has influenced a generation of blues artists. Along with guitar accompaniment, she would often play tambourine with her foot and occasionally wore ankle bells to add the rhythmic texture.
While fans and critics have praised her musical innovation, to many it is her voice itself that resonates so strongly. Her vocal quality, like her musicianship, is easily identifiable and engaging. In recent years, she has made guest appearances at various blues festivals, often singing spirituals. While Get Right Blues is mostly Jessie Mae Hemphill performing blues, four spirituals are included to demonstrate the complete range of her talent.
Produced by David Evans of High Water Records and licensed to Memphis-based Inside Sounds, this CD includes an eight-page booklet with detailed liner notes and musician credits. |
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