Wade in the Water cover

Wade in the Water

Ramsey Lewis · 1966

34 min · 10 tracks · jazz fusion · jazz-funk

Soulful jazz rhythms intertwine with pop sensibilities, creating an inviting and infectious groove throughout the album.

Wade in the Water is an album by Ramsey Lewis, released in 1966. Soulful jazz rhythms intertwine with pop sensibilities, creating an inviting and infectious groove throughout the album. 'Wade in the Water' was significant for its commercial success, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Jazz Albums chart. The title track became one of Lewis's signature songs, showcasing his ability to adapt spirituals into contemporary jazz contexts, influencing later generations of musicians. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Wade in the Water sound like?

Soulful jazz rhythms intertwine with pop sensibilities, creating an inviting and infectious groove throughout the album. Rooted in jazz fusion and jazz-funk.

What makes Wade in the Water by Ramsey Lewis notable?

'Wade in the Water' was significant for its commercial success, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Jazz Albums chart. The title track became one of Lewis's signature songs, showcasing his ability to adapt spirituals into contemporary jazz contexts, influencing later generations of musicians. By 1966, Ramsey Lewis was transitioning from a promising jazz pianist to a mainstream sensation. 'Wade in the Water' followed his breakthrough hit 'The In Crowd' and solidified his status as a leading figure in jazz-funk. This album marked a pivotal moment where Lewis began to blend traditional jazz elements with popular music influences.

How many songs are on Wade in the Water?

Wade in the Water has 10 tracks, running approximately 34 minutes.

Tracklist

10 tracks·34:52

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Wade in the Water Standout 3:52
  • 2 Ain’t That Peculiar 2:59
  • 3 Tobacco Road Standout 4:33
  • 4 Money in the Pocket 2:44
  • 5 Message to Michael 3:10
  • 6 Uptight (Everything’s Alright) Standout 5:44
  • 7 Hold It Right There 2:28
  • 8 Day Tripper 3:11
  • 9 Mi Compasion 3:06
  • 10 Hurt So Bad 3:05

Release Date

January 1, 1966

Genre

jazz fusion, jazz-funk

More albums in jazz-funk

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

34 min 52 sec