Sweet Rhythm, Bitter Blues - The Legacy of Ethel Waters - Ethel Waters

Dive into the soulful and timeless sounds of Ethel Waters with her latest album, "Sweet Rhythm, Bitter Blues - The Legacy of Ethel Waters," set to release on June 6, 2025, under the Jazz Classics label. This captivating collection of 11 tracks spans a mere 34 minutes but packs a powerful punch, showcasing Ethel Waters' unparalleled talent across the genres of ragtime, classic blues, and vocal jazz.

From the tender lullaby "Brown Baby" to the sultry "Memphis Man" and the haunting "Dying with the Blues," each song is a testament to Waters' ability to convey deep emotion and storytelling through her voice. The album features a mix of early recordings and beloved classics, including "Royal Garden Blues" and "Midnight Blues," offering a comprehensive journey through her illustrious career.

Ethel Waters, a trailblazing artist known for her powerful vocals and groundbreaking performances, brings her signature style to this album. Her voice, rich with history and warmth, guides you through each track, making "Sweet Rhythm, Bitter Blues" not just an album, but an experience. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to her music, this album is a celebration of Ethel Waters' enduring legacy and her profound impact on American music.

Ethel Waters, born in 1896, was a trailblazing American vocalist and actress who left an indelible mark on the worlds of blues, jazz, and gospel. Known affectionately as "Sweet Mama Stringbean," Waters was celebrated for her slender figure and her powerful, refined voice that could effortlessly navigate the emotional depths of the blues. Her career spanned over six decades, from the 1910s through the 1970s, during which she became a hugely popular performer and broke numerous racial barriers. Waters was the first African American to star in her own television show and to be nominated for an Emmy Award. Her performances on Broadway and in films showcased her versatility as both a singer and an actress, making her a true icon of American entertainment. Despite her humble beginnings in the slums of Philadelphia, Waters' talent and determination propelled her to stardom, inspiring generations of artists to follow.