Lee Dorsey
Lee Dorsey, born Irving Lee Dorsey on December 24, 1924, in New Orleans, Louisiana, grew up in a musical environment, befriending future musical icons like Fats Domino. At the age of ten, his family relocated to Portland, Oregon, where he was exposed to various musical styles that would later influence his career.
Lee Dorsey gained prominence in the 1960s as a pop and R&B singer. His music career began in the late 1950s, but he shot to fame with his 1961 hit "Ya Ya," which reached #1 on the charts and established him as a significant figure in the soul genre. Another major hit, "Working in the Coal Mine," released in 1966, further cemented his place in the music industry, showcasing his unique blend of rhythm and blues.
Throughout his career, Dorsey collaborated with numerous influential artists, including the legendary James Brown, which helped to enhance his popularity.
Lee Dorsey is remembered as one of the notable soul singers from New Orleans, contributing to the rich musical landscape of the region. His style and sound influenced many artists that followed him. Dorsey passed away on December 2, 1986, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate within the music community. His work remains a testament to the impact of New Orleans on the development of American music, particularly soul and R&B.
Overall, Lee Dorsey is celebrated not only for his catchy and influential songs but also for his role in shaping the sound of a pivotal era in music history.
The New Lee Dorsey
Written-By – Toussaint
A2 Can You Hear Me
Written-By – Toussaint
A3 The Greatest Love
Written-By – Toussaint
A4 A Mellow Good Time
Written-By – Toussaint
A5 Mexico
Written-By – Toussaint
A6 Get Out My Life, Woman
Written-By – Toussaint
B1 Ride Your Pony
Written-By – Neville
B2 Confusion
Written-By – Toussaint
B3 Holy Cow
Written-By – Toussaint
B4 Don't You Ever Leave
Written-By – Toussaint
B5 Neighbour's Daughter
Written-By – Toussaint
B6 A Little Dab A Do Ya
Written-By – Toussaint
Label: Stateside – SSL 10192
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: UK
Released: 1966
Genre: R&B Soul, Blues
Style: Sixties Soul
The New Lee Dorsey album - Stateside SSL 10192 pressing is an acclaimed UK mono release of Lee Dorsey's classic album, a cornerstone of New Orleans R&B produced by Allen Toussaint, praised for its "funky backbeat," humorous lyrics, and signature hits like "Working in the Coal Mine," offering a unique sound with strong bass/drums and brass, making it a highly sought-after, "wonderfully incredible" pressing for fans of classic Soul and Toussaint's legendary production.
The album epitomizes New Orleans Soul with its playful humor, catchy tunes, and distinctive loping, funky rhythms, a hallmark of Toussaint's work. It features legendary producer Allen Toussaint and the legendary Meters, delivering a consistent, winning combination of good-time music.
Includes iconic tracks like "Working in the Coal Mine" and "Holy Cow," alongside other dancers and humor-filled tracks. This specific English mono pressing from 1966 is noted for its "wonderfully incredible" audio quality and is highly regarded by collectors for its superior sound, outperforming some stereo reissues.
Why It's Praised: The interplay of rhythmic bass, drums, and brass defines Toussaint's signature New Orleans sound. Lee Dorsey's magnificent, charming vocal delivery is a key element. The original mono pressing is considered a fantastic find for its audio fidelity and capturing the essence of the era.