A deep depression recording of blues phenomenon Bessie Smith and a talented group of “growlers” accompanying her performance. Louis Metcalf seems to be confirmed on trumpet – and the rest question marks. Metcalf remembered Charlie Irvis on trombone – but the Chicago Defender on July 18, 1931, it was noted that “William W. Christian, trombonist has just finished recording with Bessie Smith.”
As this session was her only recording date of the summer, released during a very tough time for the record industry, it is nearly impossible to find on the original Columbia Viva Tonal pressing. Luckily, we have this master-pressed Parlophone to enjoy.
Recorded in New York City on June 11, 1931.
Released in the U.K. as Parlophone R2329 (master pressing).
Originally released in the U.S. as Columbia 14611-D.
Credits:
Bessie Smith – vocals
Louis Metcalf – trumpet
William W. Christian (?) or Charlie Irvis (?) – trombone
Clarence Williams (?) – piano
Unknown Artist – drums
Source:
Clarence Williams, by Tom Lord, Storyville Publications, 1974.
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