About this album
Where they were
Released in December 1953, 'That Bad Eartha' was Eartha Kitt's debut album following her rise to fame as a Broadway star. At this point in her career, she had gained significant attention for her performance in the musical 'New Faces of 1952', which helped establish her as a bold and distinct voice in entertainment.
Why it matters
'That Bad Eartha' is notable for its daring lyrical content, especially with tracks like 'I Want to Be Evil,' which challenged the era's conventions around femininity. The album received critical acclaim upon release and showcased Kitt's ability to blend jazz with theatrical flair, influencing future generations of vocalists in the jazz genre.
Essential tracks
- "I Want to Be Evil" — This track exemplifies Kitt's playful yet defiant persona, capturing her trademark blend of seduction and mischief.
- "C'est si bon" — Kitt's rendition transforms this classic into a sultry celebration of romance, highlighting her vocal dexterity and charm.
- "Lilac Wine (Dance Me a Song)" — With its haunting melody, this track showcases Kitt’s emotive range and ability to convey deep longing through her performance.
Release Date
December 1, 1953
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 I Want to Be Evil 3:32
- 2 C'est si bon 3:01
- 3 Angelitos negros 3:30
- 4 Avril au Portugal 2:55
- 5 Let's Do It 3:07
- 6 My Heart Belongs to Daddy 3:05
- 7 Uska Daba - A Turkish Tale 3:10
- 8 African Lullaby 2:55
- 9 Mountain High, Valley Low 2:39
- 10 Lilac Wine (Dance Me a Song) 3:48
- 11 Under the Bridges of Paris 2:43
- 12 Smoke Gets in Your Eyes 3:04
