Catherine Russell - Harlem On My Mind (2016)

With her sixth album, Harlem On My Mind, Grammy® Award-winning vocalist Catherine Russell journeys to the blue heart of the great African American songbook. Swinging forth with soulful interpretations, Russell taps the golden age of Harlem, as befits this vibrant daughter of jazz. Vocalists Ethel Waters, Billie Holiday, Etta James, and Dinah Washington provide inspiration where tunesmiths like Benny Carter, Irving Berlin, Andy Razaf and Fats Waller once ruled the roost of a renaissance which continues to reverberate. Of the title track, Russell says, “It’s about not forgetting your roots,” which also serves as her modus operandi for the entire 12 song collection. “The album is comprised of songs from artists who played at The Apollo in Harlem, where all African American artists of note appeared.” Russell is a native New Yorker, born into musical royalty. Her father, the late Luis Russell, was a legendary pianist/composer/bandleader and Louis Armstrong’s long-time musical director. Her mother, Carline Ray, was a pioneering vocalist/guitarist/bassist who performed with International Sweethearts of Rhythm, Mary Lou Williams, and Sy Oliver. Russell notes, “My mother was born and raised in Harlem and my father led one of the leading orchestras in Harlem, which was part of the inspiration for this album.”

Tracklist:

01. Harlem On My Mind
02. I Can't Believe That You're In Love With Me
03. Swing! Brother, Swing!
04. The Very Thought Of You
05. You've Got The Right Key But The Wrong Keyhole
06. Don't Take Your Love From Me
07. Blue Turning Grey Over You
08. You're My Thrill
09. I Want A Man
10. When Lights Are Low
11. Talk To Me, Talk To Me
12. Let Me Be The First To Know
13. Goin' To Town