Nappy Brown - Singles Collection 1954-62 (2019)

Nappy Brown was a blues and R&B singer who began his career singing gospel before turning to blues in the mid-1950s, recording for the Savoy label throughout this core era of his career, when he was greatly admired by Elvis Presley who often saw him perform in Memphis. His powerful and adaptable vocal style is widely seen as a key strand in the development of soul music, and after fading from view after the ‘50s he made a comeback during the 1980s to enjoy renewed popularity. This excellent value 52-track 2-CD set comprises the A & B sides of his Savoy singles from these years, including two titles recorded at the beginning of his recording career as a member of the Heavenly Lights gospel group, before signing to the label as a solo artist. It includes the No. 2 R&B hit “Don’t Be Angry”, plus his other hits “Pitter Patter”, “Little By Little”, “It Don't Hurt No More” & “I Cried Like a Baby”, and his classic song “(The Night Time Is) The Right Time”, which was covered by Ray Charles to score a Top 5 hit. It’s a comprehensive overview of the primary era of his recording career, and a fine showcase for the talent of a distinctive and influential performer.