I was introduced to Abbey Lincoln a few weeks ago, via an episode of the PBS American Masters series. “How It Feels to Be Free” highlights the work of six iconic Black women entertainers: Lena Horne, Nina Simone, Diahann Carroll, Cicely Tyson, Pam Grier and Lincoln.
Like most of them, Lincoln was a singer, actress and
activist. When she let her hair go natural in the 1970s, it was a whole Thing
in the jazz world. (I’m reminded that one of Henry II’s justifications for the
invasion of Ireland in the Twelfth Century was to bring monastic haircuts into
alignment with the greater Church in Europe. Never underestimate the ability of
some people to be triggered by how others choose to display their hair.)
Anyway, I really like Lincoln’s voice and the way she takes charge of a song. So here’s her version of a Billie Holliday standard, “God Bless the Child”.
©2024 Bas Bleu
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