Tell Mama cover

Tell Mama

Etta James · 1968

30 min · 12 tracks · jazz · R&B · rock & roll

A passionate blend of blues and soul, Etta James's voice commands every note with raw emotional intensity.

Why this album works

Best for
short, impactful listening sessions raw emotional intensity conversational storytelling vibes
Context
Released in early 1968, 'Tell Mama' was Etta James's first album after signing with Cadet Records. Following her previous struggles with addiction, this album marked a significant comeback, showcasing her powerful vocal range and cementing her status as a leading figure in the soul genre during a transformative period in music history.
If you like
jazz, R&B, rock & roll

Tell Mama is an album by Etta James, released in 1968. A passionate blend of blues and soul, Etta James's voice commands every note with raw emotional intensity. This album is notable for featuring the iconic track 'I'd Rather Go Blind', which has become a staple in both blues and soul music. It was well-received by critics, helping to revive James's career and securing her a place in the pantheon of American music legends. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Tell Mama sound like?

A passionate blend of blues and soul, Etta James's voice commands every note with raw emotional intensity. Rooted in jazz and R&B.

What makes Tell Mama by Etta James notable?

This album is notable for featuring the iconic track 'I'd Rather Go Blind', which has become a staple in both blues and soul music. It was well-received by critics, helping to revive James's career and securing her a place in the pantheon of American music legends. Released in early 1968, 'Tell Mama' was Etta James's first album after signing with Cadet Records. Following her previous struggles with addiction, this album marked a significant comeback, showcasing her powerful vocal range and cementing her status as a leading figure in the soul genre during a transformative period in music history.

Who is Tell Mama for?

Tell Mama works well if you're into short, impactful listening sessions, raw emotional intensity and conversational storytelling vibes.

How many songs are on Tell Mama?

Tell Mama has 12 tracks, running approximately 30 minutes.

Tracklist

12 tracks·30:08

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

  • 1 Tell Mama Standout 2:23
  • 2 I’d Rather Go Blind Standout 2:38
  • 3 Watch Dog 2:09
  • 4 The Love of My Man 2:43
  • 5 I’m Gonna Take What He’s Got 2:36
  • 6 The Same Rope 2:42
  • 7 Security Standout 2:49
  • 8 Steal Away 2:22
  • 9 My Mother-in-Law 2:24
  • 10 Don’t Lose Your Good Thing 2:29
  • 11 It Hurts Me So Much 2:38
  • 12 Just a Little Bit 2:12

Release Date

January 1, 1968

Genre

jazz

More albums in jazz

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

30 min 8 sec