Odetta Holmes, known simply as Odetta, was an iconic figure in the American folk and blues music scene. Born on December 31, 1930, in Birmingham, Alabama, she emerged as a powerful voice during the folk music revival of the 1950s and 1960s, becoming one of the most influential artists of her era. Drawing from blues, jazz, folk, and spirituals, Odetta's music resonated with profound social and political themes, especially those concerning civil rights and equality, making her an important figure in the struggle for social justice.

Odetta's rich, deep voice and commanding presence on stage earned her the moniker "The Voice of the Civil Rights Movement." She performed at historic events such as the 1963 March on Washington and was cited by Martin Luther King Jr. as a key influence. Odetta's artistry continued to inspire through the decades with a discography that spans a variety of live performances and themed albums; from the poignancy of "One Grain Of Sand" to the festive "Christmas with Odetta" and "Gonna Let It Shine: A Concert For the Holidays," her music transcended genres and touched hearts. The raw emotion in works like "Blues Everywhere I Go" and her self-titled album "Odetta" displayed her ability to convey the essence of the African-American experience. Revered by fellow musicians and beloved by audiences, Odetta's legacy lives on through her recordings and her profound impact on musicians and activists alike. She passed away on December 2, 2008, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire change and encourage the human spirit.

Genres

American Folk Revival

Folk

Spirituals

Traditional Blues

Related Artists

Joan Baez

Nina Simone

Pete Seeger

Harry Belafonte

Bob Dylan

Lead Belly

Miriam Makeba

Judy Collins

Mahalia Jackson

Buffy Sainte-Marie

Woody Guthrie

Etta James

Latest Release

I Know Where I'm Going

Odetta

Album - 13 Tracks - Released April 2, 2021