Big Boss Man: The Best Of Jimmy Reed CD

Jimmy Reed followed a limited formula, but it worked time and time again, and his songs, because of their inherent structural simplicity, are among the most versatile in the blues canon, and have been covered by countless blues and pop artists. With his laid-back, slurred singing style stretched over a lazy, easy boogie rhythm, and punctuated by short runs on his racked harmonica, Reed brought a kind of hushed, unhurried urgency to everything he recorded. The lyrics to his songs were actually written by his wife, Mary Lee Reed, and although she remains in the background on his records, they were very much a songwriting team, turning out such enduring classics as "Baby, What You Want Me to Do," "Big Boss Man," "Bright Lights, Big City," and "Ain't That Lovin' You Baby," all of which are included on this collection. Everything Reed recorded is cut from the same cloth, so casual listeners may find this anthology to be a disc too long, while serious listeners will undoubtedly want a set that goes into even more depth. For those in between, this set will be a perfect fit. ~ Steve Leggett

36 of the late great blues guitarist/ vocalist's finest recordings for the Vee-Jay label, including 'Bright Lights, Big City', 'High And Lonesome' and 'Ain't That Lovin' You Baby'. Double slimline jewelcase. 1999 release.