These Are the Blues cover

These Are the Blues

Ella Fitzgerald · 1963

42 min · 10 tracks · jazz · soul · swing

A rich tapestry of blues-infused jazz, showcasing Fitzgerald's unparalleled vocal prowess and emotional depth.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady emotional exploration throughout
  • rich vocal expressions of sorrow
  • evening relaxation with reflective tones
  • captivating storytelling through melody

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking fast-paced excitement
  • prefer standalone, upbeat tracks

Where this album fits

Themes
St. Louis blues· jailhouse despair
Career context
Released in 1963, 'These Are the Blues' came during a prolific phase for Ella Fitzgerald, following her successful collaboration with the Count Basie Orchestra. This album marked her deepening exploration into blues, expanding her repertoire beyond traditional jazz and pop standards.
Stylistic neighbors
Billie Holiday· Sarah Vaughan· Louis Armstrong
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Lady in Satin by Billie Holiday — Shares emotional depth and bluesy themes, with lush orchestration highlighting vocal vulnerability.
A Love Supreme by John Coltrane — Explores deep spiritual themes through jazz, blending improvisation with a soulful, blues-infused atmosphere.
I Put a Spell on You by Nina Simone — Combines jazz and blues with profound emotional expression, reflecting on despair and personal struggle.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Jail House Blues 5:28
  • 2 In the Evening (When the Sun Goes Down) 4:30
  • 3 See, See Rider 2:42
  • 4 You Don’t Know My Mind 4:52
  • 5 Trouble in Mind 3:34
  • 6 How Long, How Long Blues 4:00
  • 7 Cherry Red 4:12
  • 8 Down Hearted Blues 3:11
  • 9 St. Louis Blues 6:31
  • 10 Hear Me Talking to Ya 3:02

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata