About this album
Sound:
"Raw, powerful vocals meet gritty instrumentation in a vibrant fusion of psychedelic rock and blues."
Where they were
Released on August 12, 1968, 'Cheap Thrills' was Big Brother and the Holding Company's breakthrough album, elevating them to stardom. This album followed their self-titled debut and featured Janis Joplin at the height of her vocal prowess, capturing the essence of the late '60s counterculture movement.
Why it matters
'Cheap Thrills' is significant for its commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album's iconic track 'Piece of My Heart' became a defining anthem of the era and showcased Joplin's blues-infused rock style, influencing countless artists in the years to come.
Essential tracks
- "Piece of My Heart" — This track epitomizes Janis Joplin's raw emotional power and has become an enduring classic that defines the band's legacy.
- "Combination of the Two" — The opening track sets an electrifying tone with its dynamic shifts and showcases the band's improvisational strength.
- "Ball and Chain" — 'Ball and Chain' features a haunting performance by Joplin that highlights her vocal range and emotional depth, making it a standout moment on the album.
Release Date
August 12, 1968
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Combination of the Two 5:47
- 2 I Need a Man to Love 4:54
- 3 Summertime 4:00
- 4 Piece of My Heart 4:15
- 5 Turtle Blues 4:22
- 6 Oh, Sweet Mary 4:16
- 7 Ball and Chain 9:37
- 8 Roadblock (studio outtake) 5:33
- 9 Flower in the Sun (studio outtake) 3:05
- 10 Catch Me Daddy (live) 5:31
- 11 Magic of Love (live) 3:58