Bessie Smith - 1929-1933 {The Chronological Classics, 977} (1997)

These 24 tracks represent the last phase of Bessie Smith's recording career. Over the course of ten years and 160 great songs, Smith had without a doubt earned her place as the Empress of the Blues. Unfortunately, until her passing in 1937, she spent most of her time on the show circuit. For fans hungry for a healthy dose of her legacy, though, generous discs such as this provide a chance to revel in the classic female blues singing queen's lusty power. As usual, Smith is helped out by the day's jazz royalty. Featured over the course of the cuts here -- many penned by both Smith and pianist Clarence Williams -- are such top soloists as Benny Goodman, Chu Berry, James P. Johnson, and Frankie Newton. Of course, Smith grabs most of the attention, especially on definitive sides like "Gimme a Pigfoot" and "Black Mountain Blues," not to mention the ribald gem "Need a Little Sugar in My Bowl." And as far as sound quality goes, this and many other of the discs in the Classics chronological series provide a viable alternative to Columbia's celebrated Complete Recordings line.

Tracks:

01. Wasted Life Blues (3:04)
02. Dirty No-Gooder's Blues (2:57)
03. Blue Spirit Blues (2:57)
04. Worn Out Papa Blues (2:50)
05. You Don't Understand (3:05)
06. Don't Cry Baby (3:11)
07. Keep It to Yourself (3:32)
08. New Orleans Hop Scop Blues (2:59)
09. See If I'll Care (3:25)
10. Baby Have Pity on Me (3:20)
11. On Revival Day (A Rhythmic Spiritual) (2:56)
12. Moan, You Mourners (3:13)
13. Hustlin' Dan (3:32)
14. Black Mountain Blues (3:09)
15. In the House Blues (3:01)
16. Long Old Road (3:28)
17. Blue Blue (3:13)
18. Shipwreck Blues (3:21)
19. Need a Little Sugar in My Bowl (2:49)
20. Safety Mama (3:26)
21. Do Your Duty (3:26)
22. Gimme a Pigfoot (3:30)
23. Take Me for a Buggy Ride (2:37)
24. I'm Down in the Dumps (3:11)