It's an overused cliche, so let me spin it around - I'm surprised Shirley Bassey's picture isn't in the dictionary next to the word 'belter.' Americans only know her for her Bond themes, but that does a great disservice to Shirley's instrument, a booming weapon of force that shimmers with beauty but ripples with pain.
You can thank Julia DeMato from Idol season two for introducing me to Dusty Springfield. (The only man who could ever reach me, was the son of a preacher man, oh yes he was!)
"Strange Fruit" is a chilling and incredible vocal performance.
