What makes Good to Be Alive by Long John Baldry notable?

This album is notable for its blend of blues and pop sensibilities, which helped to expand Baldry's audience. The track 'Song For Martin Luther King' stands out as a poignant tribute to the civil rights leader, illustrating Baldry's engagement with social issues during a time of upheaval in the 1970s. It received considerable critical acclaim, further establishing Baldry as an influential figure in the genre. Released in 1973, 'Good to Be Alive' was Long John Baldry's fifth studio album and marked his continued evolution as a blues artist after gaining fame in the British blues scene. This album followed his successful work on 'It Ain't Easy', which solidified his reputation in both the UK and the US. At this point, Baldry was transitioning from his early career influences towards a more personal and introspective songwriting style.

Who is Good to Be Alive for?

Good to Be Alive works well if you're into celebratory anthems for gatherings, vibrant energy for road trips and heartfelt melodies for reflection.

How many songs are on Good to Be Alive?

Good to Be Alive has 12 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Good to Be Alive

Long John Baldry · 1973

39 min · 12 tracks · blues

Soulful blues melodies intertwine with reflective lyrics, showcasing a rich emotional landscape and Baldry's powerful vocal delivery.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Good To Be Alive — This title track encapsulates the album's optimistic spirit, with its uplifting melody and themes of appreciation for life that resonate throughout Baldry's work.
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Song For Martin Luther King — This track stands out for its heartfelt lyrics and social message, highlighting Baldry’s ability to address important issues through his music.
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Gasoline Alley — A cover of Rod Stewart's classic, Baldry’s rendition brings a distinct bluesy feel that showcases his vocal prowess and emotional depth.
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I Wish I Was A Rock — At just over a minute long, this playful track provides a refreshing interlude that showcases Baldry's whimsy and creativity within the album.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

celebratory anthems for gatherings
vibrant energy for road trips
heartfelt melodies for reflection
playful tunes for sunny days

Maybe skip if you

prefer dark and moody themes
seek experimental sonic landscapes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1973, 'Good to Be Alive' was Long John Baldry's fifth studio album and marked his continued evolution as a blues artist after gaining fame in the British blues scene. This album followed his successful work on 'It Ain't Easy', which solidified his reputation in both the UK and the US. At this point, Baldry was transitioning from his early career influences towards a more personal and introspective songwriting style.
Stylistic neighbors: Joe Cocker· Rod Stewart· John Mayall

Tracklist

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

1 Good To Be Alive 3:39
2 Let Me Pass 3:17
3 Rake And A Rambling Boy 3:27
4 High & Low 3:40
5 Gasoline Alley 3:39
6 I Wish I Was A Rock 1:20
7 Up In The Trees 2:52
8 Brand New Day 3:15
9 Song For Martin Luther King 4:20
10 Maggie Bell 3:04
11 Let's Go 2:34
12 She 4:40

What to play next

Listen next

Welcome to Club Casablanca

1976

Go back to

Everything Stops for Tea

1972

Full Long John Baldry discography Artists like Long John Baldry

blues

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata