21 Comments
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Andres's avatar

I was really looking forward to this, and you did not disappoint. Her vocal agility was one of a kind. So was her musicality, as you rightly illustrate. Interestingly, on Apple Music UK, Second Childhood is available, but her debut isn't (?). I love the other record you mention, It Looks Like Snow (her third, if I'm not mistaken). Her cover of Don't Let me Down is a proper journey. I need to get her records on vinyl!

Robert C. Gilbert's avatar

They should be easy to find. Strange what is available and what isn't available for streaming - just another argument for owning the records.

Andrew Jazprose Hill's avatar

Your theory about Akers’s possible influence on Phoebe Snow is intriguing. It’s certainly possible. I’ll listen to more of Akers with your idea in mind. Phoebe Snow has long been a favorite, and I will definitely be listening to her on the turntable this weekend. Thanks for another great post, Robert!

Robert C. Gilbert's avatar

Thanks, Andrew. It's long been my belief that Doris Akers influenced Phoebe Snow to some extent but again, this is just speculation on my part. Enjoy the music this weekend.

Tom Lane's avatar

It’s on the US Spotify.

William Poulos's avatar

It's also on the Australian Spotify.

Robert C. Gilbert's avatar

Maybe this is naive, but I had always thought that everyone on Spotify would be available everywhere. Another illusion shattered!

William Poulos's avatar

I thought the same!

Robert C. Gilbert's avatar

Gotcha - I'll clarify that in my next Substack dispatch.

Jon  Pinter's avatar

great songs, good writing

Robert C. Gilbert's avatar

Thank you, Jon - appreciate it.

Thea Wood's avatar

This is my kinda groove! Thanks for the learning moment. Sharing!

Tom Lane's avatar

Second Childhood is on Spotify

Robert C. Gilbert's avatar

If it's there, I'm not seeing it. Could it be that I'm accessing Spotify in Canada?

C.L. Steiner's avatar

If you belong to a public library that is linked to Freegal, you can stream or download Second Childhood. It’s indeed great.

Robert C. Gilbert's avatar

My favourite of her albums.

Marco Romano's avatar

I bought "It Looks Like^ Snow" after hearing her version of "Shake Ground". Great soulful voice!

Robert C. Gilbert's avatar

She was a really dynamic singer - mesmerizing.

David Perlmutter's avatar

Her version of "Rockin' Pneumonia and The Boogie Woogie Flu" was an outstanding revelation of her gifts for me.

Robert C. Gilbert's avatar

Hadn't heard it until a few minutes ago - it's really, really good.