I think my interest in all things vintage was born from having grown up with a love of old movies and music so I couldn't let this coming Tuesday pass without comment as it will be the 100th anniversary of legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday's birth.
Like Edith Piaf, another of my favourite singers from the 2nd half of the twentieth century, Billie Holiday is perhaps not everyone's truc but if she is I do hope you enjoy listening to a few of her songs sung in her unmistakable voice.
Known for wearing gardenias in her hair, her troubled life and humble beginnings it would be sad if Billie Holiday's genius for song writing and her fearless heartbreaking renditions of the popular songs of the time were to be forgotten.
Many people would recognise the song "God Bless the Child" perhaps without knowing that Billie Holiday herself penned it. She is also accredited with co-writing one of her most famous and moving songs "Strange Fruit" although this has since been disputed.
So do enjoy this tiny selection of songs sung by the great lady that are ideal for curling up on the couch with a glass of wine or two when you're feeling blue or let down and fancy a little wallow - "Lover Man" ,"For All We Know" and "Don't Explain" and to cheer yourself up when you're ready to face the world again I'd recommend "Me Myself and I".
I hope that this week's post just touching on some of the songs that Billie Holiday sang in her all too short life has either reminded you of this wonderful artist or even better introduced you to her and started a life long love of her remarkable voice.
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