LADY DAY: THE MANY FACES OF BILLIE HOLIDAY

Masters of American Music Volume 2

Billie Holiday

Now available again as part of the digitally remastered, limited edition Masters of American Music series!

Billie Holiday is recognized as one of the greatest blues and jazz vocalists of all time. This program tells her story. Holiday's song, "Strange Fruit," a reference to the lynching of black Americans in the South, was voted the most important piece of music of the 20th century. The singer experienced firsthand the indignities of racism in her native land. She found solace in the alcohol and drugs which eventually killed her. Her music continues to thrill audiences.

Many of her signature tunes are included in this documentary, such as "St. Louis Blues," "My Man," and "God Bless the Child." Archival film clips show Billie Holiday in performances in film, television, and concert appearances. Interviews with musical colleagues and friends give insight into the troubled life of this giant of American music. Includes performances by Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong, Benny Goodman, Ben Webster, Lester Young, Artie Shaw, Bessie Smith, and others.

From Mike Clark's USA Today review: "An irresistible title in the Masters of American Music series, this newly remastered bio/documentary opens by tracing the queen of jazzy torch from Harlem "speakeasies, gin mills and reefer pads" (to quote the narration) through her 78s with Teddy Wilson on Brunswick. Then, it's on to swingin' with Count Basie, headaches with Artie Shaw; peak years that included Lover Man; substance abuse; the twilight 1957 appearance with Lester Young on CBS' The Sound of Jazz ; and 1958's raw valedictory Lady in Satin album. Interviewed are singers Carmen McRae, Annie Ross and Holiday associates. The still photos are magnificent."

Also appearing are Carmen McRae, Annie Ross, Buck Clayton, Harry "Sweets" Edison, Mal Waldron, Milt Gabler, Albert Murray, and many others.

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