1950
DOUBLE CROSSING BLUES * LITTLE ESTHER AND THE ROBBINS WITH JOHNNY OTIS QUINTET * SAVOY 731 * USA
For a long time this was thought to be Esther Phillips, a.k.a. Little Esther, first recording, but George Moonoogian has since established that a previous recording from October of 1949 on Modern by Johnny Otis and His Orchestra, had, as its B side, the cut I Got A Gal, with vocal by Esther Jones, which was later reissued, with the same catalogue number, to cash in on the success of Double Crossing Blues with the correct title I Got A Guy as by Little Esther. Double Crossing Blues is a tongue in cheek Rhythm and Blues ballad with the thirteen year old Little Esther holding her own with The Four Robins, though she does come of the worse in the 'bear' exchange. What comes across, like a royal flush, on this early recording is the poise, subtly, self assurance, sense humour and the sheer class of Esther Phillips.
See also:
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| Looking For A Man | Heart To Heart | Home Is Where The Hatred Is | The Deacon Moves In | And I Love Him |