The songs that populate Odetta and the Blues are 1920s blues and jazz standards sung by the likes of Bessie Smith, Gertrude “Ma” Rainey, Mississippi John Hurt, Leroy Carr and other titans of the time and genre. Most are traditional, unattributable to any one songwriter – but all are linked to Black musicians. In this way, the album feels like an important (and understandable) aspect of Odetta’s quest to show America the myriad ways this country’s music wouldn’t be what it is without Black Americans.

Tracklist:

1. Hard, Oh Lord
2. Believe I’ll Go
3. Oh, Papa
4. How Long Blues
5. Hogan’s Alley
6. Leavin’ This Mornin’
7. Oh, My Babe
8. Yonder Come the Blues
9. Make Me a Pallet on the Floor
10. Weeping Willow Blues
11. Go Down Sunshine
12. Nobody Knows When You’re Down and Out

UPC: 888072455191
Label: Universal Import