BETTYE SWANN (S4R16)

This Old Heart Of Mine / Either You Love Me Or Leave Me

Bettye Swann’s heart has been broken lots of times; we know this because we’ve heard it break on many of her records. Bettye’s voice captures these moments perfectly, her delivery is soft and sensitive, almost country, giving it a realness that you can almost touch.

The most exquisite mix of warmth and sweetness wraps around the vulnerable sound, whilst a gentle quiver in her throat amplifies the pain of heartbreak. It’s a wonderfully potent combination that has been felt by soul music lovers all over the world.

These two tracks were shamefully left discarded in a Nashville tape vault for over 40 years. Both sides showcase the magnificence of Bettye’s vocals, but also highlight the fact that, despite a catalogue of consistently brilliant recordings, she achieved only moderate success and was somehow denied the superstar status that such a voice should command. My heart breaks for anyone who has never had the joy of hearing her sing.

(Tats Taylor)