There are many unlabeled cassettes in the “Box Of Important CD’s” [sic]. Here’s the audio from one of them. Bass-baritone and American hero Paul Robeson singing “L’amour De Moi”, Royal Albert Hall, London, 1958. Dubbed from Mr. Robeson’s 1970 LP In Live Performance. It’s the only song on the 90 minute tape.
In addition to his brilliant musicianship, Paul Robeson was an outspoken political observer and believer in a better world. His actions often got him in trouble with American authorities, especially Joe McCarthy’s witch trial board. The U.S. State Department revoked his passport at one point. The Supreme Court restored it due to a decision, Kent Vs. Dulles, and he was able to travel again. The London concert was the result. Mr. Robeson was much admired by both my father, and by my mother’s side of the family. His music was on rotation since I can remember. Solid, Jackson.
In this Substack podcast I listen to albums and cassettes from the collection of my father, the late jazz bassist Charlie Haden. If you like what you hear, please consider subscribing. I’m writing a book of Memoires about life, death, jazz, slowcore, and survival. The address is joshhaden.substack.com
All words & images © 2024 Josh Haden, except where noted..
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