Last Chance Texaco — Rickie Lee Jones’ “Americana”

Rickie Lee Jones is an American singer-songwriter known for her distinctive voice, eclectic musical style, and poetic lyrics. She emerged in the late 1970s as part of the singer-songwriter movement and quickly gained recognition for her unique blend of jazz, blues, rock, and pop influences. Here are some key points about Rickie Lee Jones:

1. **Early Career:** Rickie Lee Jones was born on November 8, 1954, in Chicago, Illinois. She began her music career in the mid-1970s in Los Angeles, where she performed in clubs and coffeehouses, honing her craft as a singer and songwriter.

2. **Breakthrough Album:** Jones gained widespread acclaim with her self-titled debut album, “Rickie Lee Jones,” released in 1979. The album featured the hit single “Chuck E.’s In Love,” which became a commercial success and earned Jones a Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1980.

3. **Musical Style:** Rickie Lee Jones’ music defies easy categorization, blending elements of jazz, blues, R&B, folk, and pop. Her distinctive vocal style, characterized by its raspy, expressive quality, is often compared to jazz and blues singers of the past.

4. **Critical Acclaim:** Throughout her career, Jones has received critical acclaim for her songwriting, musicianship, and emotive performances. She has released a series of well-received albums, including “Pirates” (1981), “The Magazine” (1984), and “Flying Cowboys” (1989).

5. **Collaborations:** Rickie Lee Jones has collaborated with numerous artists over the years, including Dr. John, Walter Becker, and Tom Waits, with whom she had a personal and professional relationship in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

6. **Later Work:** In addition to her music career, Jones has pursued other creative endeavors, including acting and writing. She continues to release new music and perform live, maintaining a devoted fan base and garnering respect from peers and critics alike.

Overall, Rickie Lee Jones is celebrated for her artistic integrity, innovative musical approach, and poetic storytelling, cementing her status as one of the most distinctive voices in American music.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZVj5WE1V_88

From the comments —

“The place having the most number of non-religious “kneelings”? Sandy beaches.”

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