The Billie Holiday Songbook

Billie Holiday's The Billie Holiday Songbook is a captivating collection of timeless jazz classics, showcasing the iconic vocalist's unique talent and emotional depth. Released on 1 January 1985 via Verve Reissues, this 45-minute album is a masterful blend of jazz, vocal jazz, jazz blues, and big band genres.

Featuring a carefully curated tracklist, The Billie Holiday Songbook takes listeners on a journey through some of Billie Holiday's most beloved recordings, including 'Good Morning Heartache', 'My Man', and 'God Bless The Child'. The album also includes a rare live performance of 'Lover Man (Oh, Where Can You Be?)', captured at the Seven Ages Of Jazz Festival in 1958.

With her distinctive, expressive voice and poignant delivery, Billie Holiday brings each song to life, conveying the full range of human emotions. From the melancholic 'Don't Explain' to the uplifting 'What A Little Moonlight Can Do', every track is a testament to Holiday's skill as a storyteller and her ability to connect with her audience.

The Billie Holiday Songbook is a must-listen for fans of jazz and vocal jazz, offering a poignant and intimate glimpse into the artistry of one of the genre's most revered legends. Billie Holiday's legacy continues to inspire and influence new generations of music lovers, and this album remains an essential part of her enduring discography.

Billie Holiday, born Eleanora Fagan, was a pioneering American jazz and swing singer whose distinctive voice and innovative vocal style left an indelible mark on music history. Nicknamed "Lady Day" by her friend and musical partner, Lester Young, Holiday's career spanned several decades, during which she redefined vocal jazz with her unique phrasing and improvisational skills. Her powerful performances and emotional depth made her a beloved figure in the jazz world and beyond. Beyond her musical prowess, Holiday was also known for her activism, using her platform to challenge societal norms and advocate for justice. Her legacy endures through her timeless songs and her courageous spirit, making her one of the most influential and iconic figures in American music.