Being a big Billie Holiday fan, I admit to listening to this CD with some skepticism. There have been many Billie tribute CD's over the years, few ever equalling her soulfulness and artistry, but after listening to this CD, Etta really opens my eyes and ears. I wouldn't expect someone primarily known as a soul-R&B singer to nail down these songs in an entirely new blues-soul context yet retaining its jazz structure. She doesn't really have Billie's fragility of phrasing, but shows the same X factor of emotional and gut-wrenching elements in her interpretations, though on a grander scale. She adds some of her ever-present feistiness as well, which of course Billie never had, but it never detracts from the jazz feel of this CD. Feistiness is, after all, what makes her Etta James. She shows remarkable restraint when she needs to be in this jazz context. Congrats to a brave Etta in tackling these songs so identified with Billie. You pulled it off, girl!

The blend between Etta James and Billie Holiday makes this album sensuous and hot. Etta James' voice is sultry and expresses the exhilaration, passion and pain of being in love. Like life, love is complex and full of surprises. I kept trying to identify which song I liked the best. They are all great. It felt like a massage for my soul and made my heart smile.

Being a big Billie Holiday fan, I admit to listening to this CD with some skepticism. There have been many Billie tribute CD's over the years, few ever equalling her soulfulness and artistry, but after listening to this CD, Etta really opens my eyes and ears. I wouldn't expect someone primarily known as a soul-R&B singer to nail down these songs in an entirely new blues-soul context yet retaining its jazz structure. She doesn't really have Billie's fragility of phrasing, but shows the same X factor of emotional and gut-wrenching elements in her interpretations, though on a grander scale. She adds some of her ever-present feistiness as well, which of course Billie never had, but it never detracts from the jazz feel of this CD. Feistiness is, after all, what makes her Etta James. She shows remarkable restraint when she needs to be in this jazz context. Congrats to a brave Etta in tackling these songs so identified with Billie. You pulled it off, girl!

ETTA James Sounds Fantastic on Her Remakes of Billie Holiday's SOngs.The Arrangements,Production&most Importantly the Voice all work Reallt Strongly here.Very Essential.

Etta james finally wona Grammy for this album which is shocking cause hello she's etta james what in the world took the grammy's so long...

this is a great cd ..that has a living legend pay tribute to another departed legend of jazz Billy holiday..

her range is incredible...considering she is a true barritone...amazing...one of her best albums..