• SumoMe

Odetta

“The Times They Are A-Changin'”

The opera-trained Odetta was one of the most important figures in the civil rights movement. Using her booming voice and overwhelming passion in song, she sang for human rights and equality.

She influenced many of the key figures of the folk-revival of that time, including Bob Dylan (whose song she sings in the featured video), Joan Baez, and Janis Joplin.

Every time I hear Odetta belt out some notes I’m compelled to listen to a few more songs. With me, there’s no such thing as listening to just one Odetta song in a sitting. One song inevitably turns into 3, which turns into 5. Her tones are so mesmerizing that it’s no wonder she enjoyed continued success throughout her lifetime, even well into her elder years.

Take a listen, close your eyes, and let Odetta’s tones wash over you. You’ll see what I mean.