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Tuesday, 18 June 2024

Johnny Canary

Some sweet sounding soul for you today courtesy of the late great Johnny Adams (no relation as far as I know to other famous Adamses such as Bryan, Douglas, Ansel, Tony or Sweet Fanny).

Mr Adams hailed from New Orleans and was known as 'The Tan Canary' because of his vocal range. He  released his first single - produced by the future Dr. John - in 1959. His recording career lasted right up until his death from cancer nearly 40 years later. He left behind a lot of great music. 

The two most successful periods of his career were his time with SSS International (1968-71) - which included his biggest hit "Reconsider Me" - and his stint with Rounder Records from 1984 until his death in 1998. This version of Bobby Charles' "I Don't Want To Know" comes from his final album "Man Of My Word" which was recorded during a brief period of remission. 

He was no slouch before and between those two periods either as the third selection shows. It is the A-side of a 1980 single on the excitingly named Hep' Me label. Take it away, Mr Adams.

"Reconsider Me" - Johnny Adams

"I Don't Want To Know" - Johnny Adams

"Love Me Now" - Johnny Adams

7 comments:

  1. Excellent stuff
    A true talent.
    And Mr Adams is pretty good as well!

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  2. Those live recordings are priceless.

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    Replies
    1. As in 'beyond price' or 'hilarious'?

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    2. The former. I wanted to be in the audience.

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  3. Reconsider Me is a tremendous song.

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    Replies
    1. I Don't Want To Know is a very fine tune

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    2. And in 3rd place is Love Me Now. Three good tracks today. Now for the videos

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