We continue our look back at the music of 50 years ago……
There was no shortage of singer-songwriters in 1972. There were alot crowding the top of the mountain. Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, Carole King, Neil Young, Cat Stevens and on and on.
One new voice appeared in late 72 when Joan Armatrading’s first LP, “Whatever’s For Us” was released. Although the British born Armatrading was being promoted as a solo artist most of the songs on this record were a co-writing effort with Pam Nestor who disappeared quickly from the story.
The LP was released on a small label and barely made a ripple although it was re-released in 1974 when she signed with A&M, with whom she had some really good albums through the 70’s.
This one is filled with her unique phrasing and introspective songs. She plays fantastic acoustic guitar and her piano work is tasty too.
My faves on the record are “City Girl”, “Child Star”, “It Could Have Been Better” (an Elton John favorite), ‘Head Of The Table” and “Mean Old Man” and “All The Kings Gardens”.
The album was produced by Gus Dudgeon (Elton’s producer) and included contributions from Davey Johnstone, Gerry Conway and Ray Cooper.
Consider this the first step in a very underrated career.
