What does My Eyes Have Seen sound like?

A soulful blend of traditional folk and blues, underpinned by Odetta's rich, powerful vocals. Rooted in traditional folk music and country blues.

What makes My Eyes Have Seen by Odetta notable?

This album is significant for its role in popularizing traditional African American spirituals and folk songs during a time when the Civil Rights Movement was gaining momentum. Odetta's interpretations brought renewed attention to these genres, influencing a generation of artists and contributing to the folk revival's cultural landscape. Released on July 1, 1959, 'My Eyes Have Seen' was Odetta's first album after gaining national acclaim in the folk revival scene. At this point in her career, she had already performed at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall and was becoming known as a prominent figure in American folk music.

Who is My Eyes Have Seen for?

My Eyes Have Seen works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, short, immersive listening sessions and dynamic emotional journeys.

How many songs are on My Eyes Have Seen?

My Eyes Have Seen has 13 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

My Eyes Have Seen

Odetta · 1959

40 min · 13 tracks · traditional folk music · country blues · jazz blues

A soulful blend of traditional folk and blues, underpinned by Odetta's rich, powerful vocals.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady, consistent energy levels
short, immersive listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
contemplative mood reflections

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on July 1, 1959, 'My Eyes Have Seen' was Odetta's first album after gaining national acclaim in the folk revival scene. At this point in her career, she had already performed at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall and was becoming known as a prominent figure in American folk music.
Stylistic neighbors: Bessie Smith· Billie Holiday· Mavis Staples

Tracklist

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

1 Poor Little Jesus 1:56
2 Bald Headed Woman 2:20
3 Motherless Children 2:10
4 I Know Where I'm Going 2:00
5 The Foggy Dew 5:44
6 I've Been Driving on Bald Mountain / Water Boy 6:46
7 Ox-Driver Song 2:33
8 Down on Me 2:56
9 Saro Jane 2:46
10 Three Pigs 1:22
11 No More Cane on the Brazos 3:38
12 Jumpin' Judy 2:26
13 Battle Hymn of the Republic 3:54

What to play next

Listen next

Christmas Spirituals

1960

Go back to

Sings Ballads and Blues

1957

Full Odetta discography Artists like Odetta

country blues jazz blues traditional folk music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata