Wade in the Water
Ramsey Lewis · 1966
34 min · 10 tracks · jazz fusion · jazz-funk
Soulful jazz rhythms intertwine with pop sensibilities, creating an inviting and infectious groove throughout the album.
Why this album works
'Wade in the Water' was significant for its commercial success, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Jazz Albums chart. The title track became one of Lewis's signature songs, showcasing his ability to adapt spirituals into contemporary jazz contexts, influencing later generations of musicians.
- Career context
- By 1966, Ramsey Lewis was transitioning from a promising jazz pianist to a mainstream sensation. 'Wade in the Water' followed his breakthrough hit 'The In Crowd' and solidified his status as a leading figure in jazz-funk. This album marked a pivotal moment where Lewis began to blend traditional jazz elements with popular music influences.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Nancy Sinatra· Julie London· Dean Martin· Aretha Franklin· Charlie Rich· Elvis Presley· Ella Fitzgerald· Lena Horne
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Wade in the Water Standout 3:52
- 2 Ain’t That Peculiar 2:59
- 3 Tobacco Road Standout 4:33
- 4 Money in the Pocket 2:44
- 5 Message to Michael 3:10
- 6 Uptight (Everything’s Alright) Standout 5:44
- 7 Hold It Right There 2:28
- 8 Day Tripper 3:11
- 9 Mi Compasion 3:06
- 10 Hurt So Bad 3:05
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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