Della Reese - Some Of My Best Friends Are The Blues (1995)

This CD is recording of her blues revue, which she undertook back in 1994-1995. Della is one of the last true female blues singers around. She is of the great tradition of Ma Rainey and Bessie Smith, and this recording is a testament to that statement. Ever since she first set out on her own back in the early '50s, she always performed her songs with immense intensity, but she always had a swell time singing. Opposite to many blues singers who sing with a lowdown and broken spirit, Della always sings with optimism, even when she's pouring her heart out in songs like "I Got It Bad" and "Too Much Man". Della was 63 at the time of the recording, but she shows no sign of that. Her voice is of course a little deeper, but she's lost none of her vocal power, and her diction is still impeccable. There is a little for everyone here. From some funky cuts "Still Called the Blues" to some right down dirty (but funny) blues "You Got Right Key, but the Wrong Keyhole" and "Meet Me with Your Black Drawers On". This live album is truly a joy to listen to, and my hope for the future is that she decides to a little break from the Gospel music, and record an album of blues/ jazz standards. It has been far too long. ~Stellar Della