Revenge Radio

Betty Davis – ‘Dedicated to the Press’ (mp3)

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Betty Davis is not just a 1970s funk diva, she’s the diva of every god damn thing as far as I’m concerned, and if you’re not yet acquainted, consider this your introduction. Davis’ music career spanned a few short years (73-79) with three studio albums. She was dubbed the ‘wild-woman’ of funk, an out spoken, sassy woman with attitude and wit. She attracted great controversy with her suggestive lyrics. ‘If I’m in Luck, I Might Get Picked Up‘ from her debut record was banned in Detroit, and a radio station in Kansas city was even picketed by protesters for playing the song.

Prior to the release of her records, Davis was married to jazz legend Miles Davis. Miles divorced her after one year (1968) saying she was “too young and wild” for him, however Betty is credited with having greatly influencing Miles, by introducing him to figures such as Jimi Hendrix which fostered a new era in experimentation in his music (and his wardrobe!).

The track I’ve chosen today is pretty self explanatory, and shows Davis as unapologetic for her bold style, musically and otherwise. It’s taken from her final studio album from 1975, Nasty Gal.