About this album
Where they were
Released in 1958, 'Lady in Satin' was Billie Holiday's final studio album, marking a poignant moment in her career as she faced declining health. It followed her earlier works that had solidified her place as a jazz icon, showcasing both her vocal prowess and emotional depth in a lush orchestral setting.
Why it matters
'Lady in Satin' is notable for its raw emotional honesty and was met with critical acclaim, despite being released during a tumultuous period in Holiday's life. This album is often considered one of her most significant works, influencing countless artists and contributing to the legacy of jazz vocalists who followed.
Essential tracks
- "You've Changed" — This track beautifully captures the melancholy of lost love with Holiday's signature emotive delivery, making it a standout piece on the album.
- "I Get Along Without You Very Well" — Holiday's interpretation of this classic showcases her ability to convey profound sadness, reflecting her personal struggles while maintaining musical elegance.
- "I'm a Fool to Want You" — The heart-wrenching lyrics paired with Holiday's vulnerable performance make this track emblematic of the album's themes of longing and heartbreak.
- "For Heaven's Sake" — 'For Heaven's Sake' features an orchestral arrangement that complements Holiday’s voice, capturing the essence of yearning present throughout the album.
Release Date
June 1, 1958
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 2 For Heaven's Sake 3:29
- 3 You Don't Know What Love Is 3:51
- 4 I Get Along Without You Very Well 3:01
- 5 For All We Know 2:55
- 6 Violets for Your Furs 3:26
- 7 You've Changed 3:20
- 8 It's Easy to Remember 4:03
- 9 But Beautiful 4:32
- 10 Glad to Be Unhappy 4:09
- 11 I'll Be Around 3:26
- 12 The End of a Love Affair (mono) 4:52
- 13 I'm a Fool to Want You (take 3) 3:28
- 14 I'm a Fool to Want You (alternate take 2) 3:26
- 15 The End of a Love Affair: The Audio Story 9:50
- 16 The End of a Love Affair (stereo) 4:46
- 17 [silence] 0:06