What makes Odetta by Odetta notable?

The album is notable for its cultural impact, particularly in the context of the civil rights movement, where Odetta's interpretations of traditional songs resonated deeply. It received critical acclaim upon release, with publications like Rolling Stone later recognizing it as one of the essential folk albums that helped shape the genre in America. Odetta was released in 1963, marking a significant moment in Odetta's career following her rise as a key figure in the folk revival movement. This album came after her influential performance at the Newport Folk Festival in 1960, solidifying her status as the 'voice of the civil rights movement' and establishing her as a leading artist in American folk music.

Odetta works well if you're into short tracks for quick enjoyment, evocative storytelling through song and warmth of acoustic arrangements.

How many songs are on Odetta?

Odetta has 11 tracks, running approximately 35 minutes.

Odetta

Odetta · 1963

35 min · 11 tracks · pop music

A rich tapestry of traditional folk and blues woven through powerful vocals and stirring arrangements.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Midnight Special — This track captures Odetta's powerful vocal delivery and deep emotional connection to the song’s themes of freedom and hope, making it a standout representation of her artistry.
→
Spiritual Trilogy: Oh Freedom / Come and Go With Me / I'm on My Way — This medley showcases Odetta's ability to blend spirituals with folk elements, creating an uplifting experience that highlights her vocal prowess and storytelling ability.
→
Deep River — The haunting quality of this traditional spiritual allows Odetta to display her range and emotive depth, making it a poignant moment on the album.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

short tracks for quick enjoyment
evocative storytelling through song
warmth of acoustic arrangements
reflective moments for quiet times
sing-along spirit with friends

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy dance tracks
prefer lengthy immersive experiences

Where this album fits

Career context: Odetta was released in 1963, marking a significant moment in Odetta's career following her rise as a key figure in the folk revival movement. This album came after her influential performance at the Newport Folk Festival in 1960, solidifying her status as the 'voice of the civil rights movement' and establishing her as a leading artist in American folk music.
Stylistic neighbors: Bessie Smith· Billie Holiday· Mavis Staples

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Midnight Special

The song shifts from narrative storytelling to a communal call for liberation.

This transition invites listeners into a shared experience, transforming a personal journey into a collective aspiration for freedom.

Tracklist

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

1 Greensleeves 2:54
2 Midnight Special 2:36
3 Easy Rider 5:07
4 Alabama Bound 1:43
5 Spiritual Trilogy: Oh Freedom / Come and Go With Me / I'm on My Way 6:05
6 Timber 3:11
7 Deep River 3:01
8 Chilly Winds 2:43
9 Santy Anno 1:56
10 Jack O'Diamonds 3:14
11 Deep Blue Sea 3:01

What to play next

Listen next

It's a Mighty World

1964

Go back to

Odetta Sings Folk Songs

1963

Full Odetta discography Artists like Odetta

country blues jazz blues traditional folk music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata