Recorded Live at "The Bear" in Chicago

Griffin, Bessie and the Gospel Pearls

Pure Exalting Joy

Of the many fire-breathing gospel women working in Mahalia Jackson's shadow, Bessie Griffin (1922–1989) was the one most likely to send a congregation into rapture. Her voice was big and authoritative, a supple yet sturdy instrument that one student, the singer and songwriter Neko Case, esteems as "the greatest singing voice North America has ever produced." Griffin used that gift to send pure exalting joy through time-tested warhorses of gospel, and when supported by the five Gospel Pearls, who were more vigorous than most backing chorales, the sound they produced together is awesome. You hear Griffin do anything—"Wade in the Water," "Didn't It Rain"—and you're ready to join her congregation.

A native of New Orleans, Griffin managed to record for over four decades. Although she was frequently cited as a major force in gospel, and appears on many key compilations, she never attained superstar status. Compounding that slight is this: Many of her best works, including Swing Down Sweet Chariot and the conceptual Portraits in Bronze, have not been issued on CD. As a result, this live date, which is a bit heavy on the upbeat jubilee zeal, is the best way to encounter Griffin. Put it on, and prepare to be converted.

Genre: Gospel
Released: 1963, Epic (Reissued 1998)
Key Tracks: "Wade in the Water," "Same Train," "Move Up a Little Higher."
Catalog Choice: Even Me: Four Decades of Bessie Griffin
Next Stop: Mavis Staples: We'll Never Turn Back
After That: Various Artists: The Great Gospel Women
Book Page: 328