Jazz from Detroit
  • Home
  • About
    • About the Author
    • About the Book
    • Table of Contents
  • Events
  • Press
  • Purchase
    • Amazon
    • U-M Press
  • Playlists
  • Musings & Music
  • Media Photos
  • Contact

The One and Only 

May 16, 2019

Sources disagree whether the immortal Betty Carter was born in 1929 or 1930, but there is no discrepancy when it comes to these facts: The singer was born on May 16 in Flint, Mich., raised in Detroit,  and comprised a category of one — and among the most spontaneous musicians we’ve ever had in jazz. Here’s an epic version of one of her signature pieces, “Sounds,” from what for many remains her most vital recording, “The Audience with Betty Carter,” recorded in 1979 with pianist John Hicks, bassist Curtis Lundy and drummer Kenny Washington. Carter died in 1998. About 15 years earlier, I remember standing with musicologist Larry Gushee at the University of Illinois when he told someone, “Betty Carter — she can change your life.” This is what he was talking about.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RD7V7xTL0QE

Newer
All
Older

Connect

© 2025 Jazz from Detroit Powered by Jottful