Donald Byrd was a jazz and R&B trumpeter and vocalist, primarily throughout the sixties and seventies. In addition to working in music, he was also involved with many universities and eventually received a PhD is music education from Columbia. During his time playing and teaching, he influenced and nurtured many young musicians, most notably Herbie Hancock. Hancock credited Byrd with giving him the advice to not give away his publishing rights, which enabled Hancock to purchase his very first car after releasing Takin’ Off. He bought a Shelby Cobra and still owns it.
Street Lady was released by Blue Note in 1973 to largely positive sentiment. Some jazz purists panned the album, saying it was too “kitsch.” But, as reviewer Stephen Thomas Erlewine said, “the appeal of Street Lady is how its polished neo-funk and pseudo-fusion sound uncannily like a jive movie or television soundtrack from the early '70s.” The lounge-y keys, the soft high-hats and luxurious brass build a vibe that transports. Particularly in Woman of the World, the upbeat tempo and sunshine sounds bring us to the streets of Brooklyn or San Francisco in the middle of the summer.
Enjoy.
Street Lady - Donald Byrd
Pair this album with:
Cantina Giardino Rosato. There are two types of rosé in Italy, vins de soif (thirst-quenching wines) and vins de gastronomie (wines for food). This is a vin de gastronomie. It’s a bit darker and has more complexity and body, but is still very drinkable. Dark rosés tend to be juicy and fruity, but not sweet. Ideal for cheesy, pepper-y pasta.
Cacio e Pepe. I’ve been thinking a lot about pasta recently, especially the Roman dishes. This is a simple one, but buy the best ingredients you can find and it’ll be the best meal all week (or month, or year).
Focaccia. Any excuse for focaccia! I haven’t made this recipe yet, but I’ve heard it’s the best one around. It’s great for dinner and can also be used in the morning with some honey and ricotta while you’re drinking a latte.
Thank you, thank you. Have a great weekend. ✨
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