About this album
Where they were
Released in 1993, 'Blue Light 'til Dawn' was Cassandra Wilson's fourth studio album and marked a significant moment in her career following the acclaimed 'Jumpworld'. At this point, she was transitioning from her early work into a more experimental phase, blending diverse musical influences that would define her signature style.
Why it matters
This album received critical acclaim for its innovative approach to traditional jazz standards, showcasing Wilson's unique vocal style. It peaked at number 2 on the Billboard Jazz Albums chart and solidified her influence on the contemporary jazz scene, inspiring a generation of artists who sought to fuse different genres.
Essential tracks
- "You Don’t Know What Love Is" — This track highlights Wilson's ability to convey deep emotion through her lush vocal delivery, transforming a classic ballad into a haunting experience.
- "Hellhound on My Trail" — Wilson's interpretation of this Robert Johnson classic integrates blues with jazz influences, showcasing her talent for reimagining traditional songs.
- "Tupelo Honey" — Her rendition of Van Morrison’s song brings a fresh jazz sensibility, emphasizing lyrical nuances that resonate with personal longing and warmth.
- "Blue Light ’Til Dawn" — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of yearning and reflection, with Wilson's delivery creating an intimate atmosphere.
Release Date
January 1, 1993
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 You Don’t Know What Love Is 6:05
- 2 Come On In My Kitchen 4:53
- 3 Tell Me You’ll Wait for Me 4:48
- 4 Children of the Night 5:19
- 5 Hellhound on My Trail 4:34
- 6 Black Crow 4:38
- 7 Sankofa 2:02
- 8 Estrellas 1:59
- 9 Redbone 5:36
- 10 Tupelo Honey 5:36
- 11 Blue Light ’Til Dawn 5:10
- 12 I Can’t Stand the Rain 5:26