Album Info
| Artist: | Aretha Franklin With James Cleveland & The Southern California Community Choir |
| Album: | Amazing Grace |
| Gatefold: | Yes |
| Released: | Europe, 2014 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Mary Don't You Weep | 7:29 |
| Written-By - Inez Andrews | ||
| A2 | Medley: Precious Lord, Take My Hand / You've Got A Friend | 5:34 |
| Written-By - Thomas A. Dorsey | ||
| A3 | Old Landmark | 3:40 |
| Written-By - Carole King | ||
| A4 | Give Yourself To Jesus | 5:16 |
| Written-By - Robert Fryson | ||
| B1 | How I Got Over | 4:22 |
| Written-By - Traditional | ||
| B2 | What A Friend We Have In Jesus | 6:03 |
| Written-By - Traditional | ||
| B3 | Amazing Grace | 10:45 |
| Written-By - Traditional | ||
| C1 | Precious Memories | 7:20 |
| Written-By - Traditional | ||
| C2 | Climbing Higher Mountains | 2:32 |
| Written-By - Traditional | ||
| C3 | Remarks By Reverend C.L. Franklin | 1:56 |
| Speech [Spoken Word] - Reverend C.L. Franklin | ||
| C4 | God Will Take Care Of You | 8:48 |
| Written-By - Traditional | ||
| D1 | Wholy Holy | 5:30 |
| Written-By - Al Cleveland, Marvin Gaye, Renaldo Benson | ||
| D2 | You'll Never Walk Alone | 6:31 |
| Written-By - Oscar Hammerstein II, Richard Rodgers | ||
| D3 | Never Grow Old | 9:57 |
| Written-By - Traditional |
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Description
Aretha Franklin's "Amazing Grace," released on June 1, 1972, is not just an album; it's a monumental piece of musical history that captures the essence of gospel music and the soul of one of the greatest voices of all time. This live album, recorded at the New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles, features the legendary gospel singer James Cleveland and the Southern California Community Choir, creating a powerful and uplifting experience that resonates with listeners even today.
The album was a significant departure from Franklin's previous work in soul and R&B, showcasing her deep roots in gospel music. It was recorded over two nights in January 1972 and was released as a double album. The recording sessions were notable not only for their spiritual intensity but also for the sheer talent on display. Aretha's voice, combined with the choir's harmonies and Cleveland's piano, creates a transcendent atmosphere that invites listeners into a deeply personal and communal worship experience.
"Amazing Grace" was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Gospel Albums chart and number 8 on the Pop Albums chart. It became one of the best-selling gospel albums of all time, and its impact was felt far beyond the charts. The album was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Soul Gospel Performance and won the Grammy for Best Soul Gospel Performance in 1973. This recognition solidified Aretha's status not just as a pop icon but as a revered figure in the gospel music community.
Standout tracks on the album include the title track "Amazing Grace," which is a breathtaking rendition that showcases Aretha's vocal prowess and emotional depth. Her interpretation of this classic hymn is both powerful and moving, capturing the essence of its message of redemption and grace. Other notable tracks include "How I Got Over," which features a stirring performance that highlights the choir's harmonies and Aretha's ability to convey deep emotion through her singing. The album also includes "Precious Lord, Take My Hand," a song that holds significant personal meaning for Aretha, as it was a favorite of her late father, Reverend C.L. Franklin.
Critically, "Amazing Grace" has been lauded by numerous publications and music critics. Rolling Stone described it as "one of the greatest gospel albums of all time," praising Aretha's ability to blend her soul roots with gospel traditions. The album has been included in various lists of the greatest albums ever made, further cementing its legacy in music history. In 1998, it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, recognizing its historical significance and enduring influence.
One interesting aspect of the album's production is the context in which it was recorded. The sessions were marked by a sense of spontaneity and authenticity, with Aretha often feeding off the energy of the congregation. The atmosphere in the church was electric, and this energy is palpable in the recordings. Aretha herself has spoken about the experience, noting how the live setting allowed her to connect with the audience in a profound way, making each performance feel like a shared spiritual journey.
In addition to its musical achievements, "Amazing Grace" holds cultural significance as it reflects the civil rights movement of the 1970s. Aretha Franklin was not only a musical icon but also a symbol of empowerment and resilience for many African Americans during a time of social upheaval. The themes of hope and faith in the album resonate with the struggles and triumphs of the era, making it a powerful statement beyond just music.
In conclusion, Aretha Franklin's "Amazing Grace" is a landmark album that transcends genres and generations. Its blend of gospel fervor and soulfulness, combined with Aretha's unmatched vocal talent, creates an experience that is both uplifting and transformative. Whether you're a lifelong fan of gospel music or just discovering Aretha's work, this album is a must-listen that continues to inspire and uplift listeners around the world.
