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CD Review: The Gypsy - Jackie King with Willie Nelson

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Reviewed by Carrie Attebury

Jackie King has been playing music for over 40 years with some of music's greatest legends, including Ray Charles and Tony Bennett. He has been touring for the last two years as a part of Willie Nelson's band. This album is a mainly instrumental work from Jackie King, with Willie Nelson contributing to the vocals. "Listening to the music here is like being present at an after-hours session among friends who share a mutual interest" says Nat Hentoff.

I personally think that The Gypsy is one of the best albums I have heard in a long time. I am sure that Bob Wills, a major musical influence on both Willie and Jackie, is looking down from heaven and smiling down at them warmly for making this album. It is a combination of country and jazz music.

The Gypsy Cover
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• The Gypsy CD review
• Rainbow Connection CD Review
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• Carrie's Corner - Willie Nelson
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"The Gypsy," the title cut, is my favorite song from the album. I have read that Jackie and Willie got the idea to do the album playing this song in their live shows. I have listened to Willie sing ever since I can remember and have never heard his voice sound as smooth as it does on this song. Willie's vocals and Jackie's guitar styles sound so good together.

"The Nearness Of You" is a great old instrumental tune that is just as fresh and new today as when it was written many years ago. It's perfect for a romantic evening of slow dancing with your sweetheart. They just don't make songs like this anymore.

"Heart Of A Clown" has more of a country feel to the lyrics than the other selections on the album. "If I had the heart of a clown, I'd laugh every time you made me blue. If I had the heart of a clown, you wouldn't see me cry the way I Do. I'd paint a smile upon my face each time you hurt me so."

"San Antonio Rose" is an upbeat jazz version of the Bob Wills' signature tune. It's always been one of my favorite songs. I love hearing new interpretations of this great old classic.

"Once In A While" is a song that is dedicated to Willie and Jackie's fellow musician and songwriter, Doug Sahm, who has recently passed away.

"Jealous Heart" features Willie Nelson on vocals. It is the story of how jealousy can ruin a relationship. "Oh jealous heart, you have driven her away. Can't you see the damage you have done..." the song mourns.

I would highly recommend this album to jazz and country music fans. I have never really listened to jazz music but I am going to start by looking for more of Jackie King's albums.

Song List

  1. Gypsy
  2. Nearness of You
  3. Heart of a Clown
  4. Once in a While
  5. Jealous Heart
  6. Back Home in Indiana
  7. My Window Faces the South
  8. Cherokee
  9. San Antonio Rose
  10. Lover Come Back to Me

Audio clips courtesy of Barnes & Noble
All graphics © Shelly Fabian, except the album cover, used with permission of Free Falls Entertainment.

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