Dee Dee Bridgewater
Dee Dee Bridgewater, born Denise Eileen Garrett on May 27, 1950, in Memphis, Tennessee, is an acclaimed American jazz singer and actress. She was raised in a musically rich environment; her father, Matthew Garrett, was a respected jazz trumpeter, which heavily influenced her upbringing in Flint, Michigan, where she moved with her family shortly after her birth.
Bridgewater's early exposure to jazz music played a significant role in shaping her career. She attended the Flint Central High School, where she was actively involved in various musical activities, which set the foundation for her future in the music industry.
She began her professional career as a member of the legendary Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Big Band, marking her entry into a broader musical arena. Her ability to bridge multiple genres has defined her artistic identity throughout her career. Over the years, she has released numerous albums and received critical acclaim, including three Grammy Awards, reflecting her outstanding contributions to the jazz genre.
Bridgewater's talent extends beyond music; she has also made a name for herself in theater and film. Her versatility as an artist has allowed her to perform in various prestigious venues and festivals around the world.
In addition to her musical achievements, Dee Dee Bridgewater is recognized for her role as a cultural ambassador for jazz music, promoting its rich heritage and history globally.
Overall, Dee Dee Bridgewater's life and career showcase her as a fearless voyager in the arts, continually pioneering new paths while honoring the traditional roots of jazz music.
Dee Dee Bridgewater
Written-By – J.B. Jefferson, Richard Roebuck, Thom Bell
4:55
A2 When Love Comes Knockin'
Written-By – Dennis Caldirola, Joe Ericksen, Thom Bell
4:20
A3 One In A Million (Guy)
Written-By – Joe Ericksen, Thom Bell
4:43
A4 Gunshots In The Night
Written-By – Casey James, Leroy Bell
6:27
B1 When You're In Love
Written-By – Casey James
6:24
B2 That's The Way Love Should Feel
Written-By – Alan Glass, Preston Glass
4:28
B3 Give In To Love
Written-By – Linda Creed, Thom Bell
5:11
B4 Jody (Whoever You Are)
Written-By – J.B. Jefferson
4:14
Label: Elektra – 6E-306
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1980
Genre: R&B Soul, Jazz, Funk
Style: Eighties Soul, Disco
Dee Dee Bridgewater's 1980 self-titled album, produced by Thom Bell, aimed for jazz/soul/funk but received mixed reactions, with some critics finding her higher-pitched, softer vocals floating over music that felt too slow or weak, despite moments of funk ("Gunshots in the Night") and strong ballads ("When You're in Love").
While it showcased her versatility and included great musicians, some listeners preferred her jazzier sound over the R&B-focused material, noting a departure from her earlier soulful style.
The album featured lush production from Thom Bell (known for his Philly Soul sound), but some felt Bridgewater's voice didn't fully command the music, instead floating softly.
Listeners noted a change from her previous jazzier, soulful approach to a more contemporary R&B/funk style, which didn't appeal to everyone.
Strong Tracks: "Gunshots in the Night" was praised for its uptempo, funky groove; "When You're in Love" was highlighted as a melodically strong ballad with electronic touches.
Overall, it's considered a transitional album, showcasing her versatility but diverging from the sound many fans loved from her earlier work, though it remains a significant part of her discography for collectors.