Albert King - Born Under a Bad Sign (1967)

 

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The 2nd compilation of blues music released by the late Alber King. I favor this electric blues sound more than most and find myself reaching for this record often. Besides, what a badass he was. Not only did he influence Stevie but he also wailed on a guitar made for kings, pun intended. 

Born Under A Bad Sign

Aretha Franklin - I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You (1967)

 

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There are no words that I can write that haven't already been written. What I will say is as a child I stopped whenever I heard her voice on the radio. The power behind it just demands your entire attention, it gets into your bones and makes you move. The band of course is super tight as to be expected, as are the back-up singers, which will undoubtedly include you moments into the 1st track. It's hard to believe that this was already her 10th release, because the power on this record definitely felt like a debut statement. But that's what happens with a voice like hers. So grab this and someone close and get into it. 

I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You

B.B. King - Completely Well (1969)

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King has a slew of records from his prolific career and I like to take them slow and easy, just like his playing. By the time this record came out, He had been professionally playing for nearly 30 years, and it clearly shows in this set. The tracks are super tight, and the band sounds warm and comfortable, and King's playing and voice are nothing short of perfect. This collection is most notable as his breakthrough album, with one of his best charting singles, and the most covered song in his catalog. A song which went on to earn him his first of many Grammy Awards, and setting him up for another coupe of decades worth of work ahead of him. Let start the week & month off right with some easy-going beautiful blues music. 

Completely Well