Beginner’s guide to Cassandra Wilson, world-class jazz singer

Cassandra Wilson has long been a favourite of Music For Grown-Ups: she’s a great performer with an enviable discography. Friday’s Jazz Library (4 July 2008 22:30-23:30, BBC Radio 3) was a fitting beginner’s guide to a world-class jazz singer.

If you like jazz vocals, but are left unsatisfied by over-hyped contemporary chanteuses, Ms Wilson could be just what you’ve been waiting for.

Lovely programme, promoting the new album, Loverly.

Here’s the well-chosen setlist. And, as a bonus, the music is intercut with a fine interview of Wilson by Alyn Shipton.


Jazz Library - Friday 4 July 2008 22:30-23:30 (Radio 3)

1. Lover Come Back to Me;
Album Loverly

2. Apricots on Their Wings
Artist: Henry Threadgill New Air - with Cassandra Wilson
Composer: Threadgill. Album: Air Show No 1

3. Never
Composer Wilson / Coleman Album Point of View

4. I'm Goin Home
Artist Steve Coleman and Five Elements
Album On The Edge of Tomorrow

5. Rock This Calling
Album Jump World

6. You Don't Know What Love Is
Artist Cassandra Wilson
Album Blue Light Til Dawn

7. Last Train To Clarkesville
Artist Cassandra Wilson
Album New Moon Daughter

8. Equality
Artist Dave Holland
Album Dream of the Elders

9. Travellin Miles
Album Travellin Miles

10. Title Seven Steps
Album Travellin Miles

11. Fragile Artist Cassandra Wilson Composer Sting Album Glamored

12. Dust My Broom; Album Loverly


Online access: like many BBC radio programmes it’s available online for a week after broadcast. You can access via BBC Listen Again:

www.bbc.co.uk/radio3




Gerry Smith