Esther Phillips

Esther Phillips on vinyl: blues, soul and jazz in one voice

In short: Esther Phillips (1935–1984) was already on stage as a teenager as “Little Esther” with Johnny Otis, singing rhythm & blues. In the seventies she recorded soul, jazz and disco for the Kudu label – with a voice that sounded rough and tender at the same time. The Vinyl Room currently has 4 records by Esther Phillips.

What makes Esther Phillips special?

A singer who defied categorisation: “Performance” and “Capricorn Princess” were made at Kudu, produced in Creed Taylor’s circle with jazz musicians and strings.

“Confessin' The Blues” shows her bluesy side, while “All About Esther Phillips” comes from her later years at Mercury.

From our stock

First pressings

Records by Esther Phillips

→ Kudu · CTI · Jazz-funk · Soul & funk on vinyl

FAQ

Who was “Little Esther”? Esther Phillips as a young singer, who became known with Johnny Otis from 1949.

Which label was she on in the seventies? Mainly Kudu, one of Creed Taylor’s labels.

What music did she sing? Rhythm & blues, soul, jazz and blues – and in the seventies also disco.

Which records do you have? Editions from the seventies – 4 records in all.