Bettye LaVette

The Profile

Detroit-born American soul singer active since the 1960s, known for her deep, expressive voice and late-career revival.

Performed with people like James Brown in the 1960s; I've Got My Own Hell To Raise (2005) was produced by Joe Henry and released on Anti; career includes notable late-career albums such as A Woman Like Me and The Scene of the Crime.

Hal's review celebrates Bettye LaVette's 2005 album as an emotionally intense, sparse-sounding soul record. The review highlights her deep, rough voice and a special repertoire of female-written covers. Production by Joe Henry and release on Anti- are praised as tasteful choices.