X-Ray Spex – ‘I am a Poseur’ (mp3)
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There’s nothing rare or obscure about today’s track. It’s just a goodun. Snap, crackle and pop!
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.
Etta James & Sugar Pie DeSanto- ‘In The Basement’ (mp3)
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There is only one possible song that could kick things off here at Revenge Radio – the irresistible ‘In the Basement’ by Etta James & Sugar Pie DeSanto. This was the ‘signature track’ for the last year of my radio show, and is the stock standard opener for most mix CDs that I’ve thrust upon many a poor (un)fortunate soul. Etta and Sugar performed a few numbers together, but this would have to take the cake. Originally released as a single (Etta James & Sugar Pie DeSanto, Cadet 5539 – In The Basement (Part 1) / In The Basement (Part 2) ) the track can also be found on Etta James 1971 record ‘Peaches’ and numerous compilations including ‘Etta James: Her Best’ and the best of Sugar Pie DeSanto’s years with Chess Records ‘Down in the Basement’. If you don’t feel the urge to move your ass to this one, then you’re creepy and have no soul!
