What makes Back to the Roots by Ramsey Lewis notable?

This album gained significant attention for its smooth fusion of genres, notably reaching No. 20 on the Billboard Pop Albums chart. Its interpretations of contemporary hits like 'We've Only Just Begun' highlighted Lewis's innovative approach to popular music, influencing both jazz and pop artists in the early '70s. In 1971, Ramsey Lewis was transitioning from his acclaimed jazz trio work into a more commercially accessible sound. 'Back to the Roots' followed his successful album 'Sun Goddess' and solidified his position in the evolving jazz fusion scene, illustrating his ability to adapt while maintaining artistic integrity.

Who is Back to the Roots for?

Back to the Roots works well if you're into wave-like pacing with climaxes, vibrant afternoon gathering energy and rich arrangements for focused listening.

How many songs are on Back to the Roots?

Back to the Roots has 9 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Back to the Roots

Ramsey Lewis · 1971

40 min · 9 tracks · jazz fusion · jazz-funk

A vibrant blend of jazz, funk, and pop that showcases Ramsey Lewis's signature piano style and rich arrangements.

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Why this album works

This album gained significant attention for its smooth fusion of genres, notably reaching No. 20 on the Billboard Pop Albums chart. Its interpretations of contemporary hits like 'We've Only Just Begun' highlighted Lewis's innovative approach to popular music, influencing both jazz and pop artists in the early '70s.

Best for: wave-like pacing with climaxes vibrant afternoon gathering energy rich arrangements for focused listening
Context: In 1971, Ramsey Lewis was transitioning from his acclaimed jazz trio work into a more commercially accessible sound. 'Back to the Roots' followed his successful album 'Sun Goddess' and solidified his position in the evolving jazz fusion scene, illustrating his ability to adapt while maintaining artistic integrity.
Stylistic neighbors: Nancy Sinatra· Julie London· Dean Martin· Aretha Franklin· Charlie Rich· Elvis Presley· Ella Fitzgerald· Lena Horne

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Candida 2:59
2 We've Only Just Begun Standout 3:58
3 Back to the Roots 3:02
4 Love Now On 5:07
5 Fool on the Hill Standout 6:05
6 Since I Fell for You 3:03
7 Up in Yonder 4:37
8 Crescent Noon 4:33
9 He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother Standout 7:02

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata

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jazz fusion jazz-funk