Tell Mama
35 min · 14 tracks · blues
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
Etta James's vocal prowess and varied arrangements create a compelling blend of blues and soul.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a title track that features a prominent horn section, setting a lively tone that contrasts with the emotional weight of subsequent songs.
- Etta James's vocal delivery varies significantly across tracks, ranging from powerful belting in 'I'd Rather Go Blind' to softer, more introspective moments in 'It Hurts Me So Much'.
- Several tracks incorporate call-and-response elements, particularly in 'Security', which enhances the gospel influence and engages the listener.
- Composition 25% of the score
-
8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
-
7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 If I Can't Have You 2:48
- 2 Nobody but You 2:20
- 3 Next Door to the Blues 2:47
- 4 Something's Got a Hold on Me 2:48
- 5 (You Better) Do Right 1:59
- 6 I'm Loving You More Everyday 3:18
- 7 Mellow Fellow 3:00
- 8 Steal Away 2:21
- 9 Watch Dog 2:08
- 10 Tell Mama 2:21
- 11 Security 2:47
- 12 I Got You Babe 2:26
- 13 Fire 2:23
- 14 Miss Pitiful 2:21
Reference: MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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