Inner City Blues
Grover Washington, Jr. · 1972
35 min · 6 tracks · jazz
A soulful blend of jazz and funk that echoes the struggles of urban life with heartfelt melodies.
Why this album works
'Inner City Blues' is significant for its poignant social commentary, notably reflected in its title track which became an anthem for the socio-political movements of the early 1970s. The album received critical acclaim, including high ratings from major publications like Rolling Stone, and helped solidify Washington's reputation as a leading jazz artist during that era.
- Best for
- steady melodic flow throughout soulful reflections on urban life moments of heartfelt introspection
- Context
- Released on January 3, 1972, 'Inner City Blues' was Grover Washington Jr.'s third studio album, following his breakthrough with 'Livin' for the City' in 1971. At this point in his career, he was establishing himself as a prominent figure in the jazz genre, particularly known for incorporating elements of soul and R&B into his sound.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Barbra Streisand· Diana Ross· Ella Fitzgerald· Bob Dylan· Tony Bennett· Aretha Franklin· Dave Brubeck· Andy Williams
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) Standout 7:17
- 2 Georgia on My Mind 4:43
- 3 Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) Standout 5:05
- 4 Ain’t No Sunshine / Theme from “Man and Boy” (“Better Days”) Standout 8:38
- 5 Until It’s Time for You to Go 4:39
- 6 I Loves You Porgy 5:07
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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