WHO IS THIS BITCH ANYWAY? ...or, THE MAGIC THAT IS MARLENA SHAW
...I don't remember when I first heard Marlena Shaw's voice, but I do remember the song. I was about 9 or 10 years old. My father took me to see the controversial Diane Keaton film, LOOKING FOR MR. GOODBAR -- much to the dismay and anger of the cinema manager. I remember her making a scene saying something like, "How dare you take your child to see a movie like this! This is not a movie for children!" ...of course, she was correct. However, aside from being horrified by the still upsetting ending -- I don't think it caused me any problems. Anyway, Marlena Shaw sang the theme song. The song was bad but the vocal was really interesting to me. Years later I heard her voice again -- this time singing a great song called "You Taught Me How To Speak In Love" ...A song which should have been too icky sweet, but thanks to her delivery is this stunning little piece of art. I remember tracking down the LP at the headshop. The LP was called "Who Is This Bitch, Anyway?" ...the incredible cover shot says it all.

This first LP I purchased is gone, but the cover remains. It hangs in our living room. I love the audacity and personal strength of it. Just check out that face and intensity. Talk about "fierce" -- this is a strong woman but somehow filled with a softness at certain times during a song. I also love the challenge Ms. Shaw lays down with the opening track. I don't know much about Shaw, but the opening is funny but rather uncomfortable exchange between she and a potential "john" ---- now, this is about 5 years before Donna Summer ever thought of 'Bad Girls' --- but Marlena Shaw's take is much more open and direct. ...in less than a minute we know that she (or maybe this 'character') was once for sale, but she had her price and it would NOT be lowered. As the "john" tries to convince her to "be" with him for $20 she casually loses him -- and their voices and street voices fade away into music. And, what music! Her voice is not as beautiful or touching to me as Babs or as heart-wrenching as Billie Holiday -- but it has a strength and desire of hope that has always pulled me in. And, a sense of freeness and humor that really reaches me.

Anyway, Marlena Shaw is on my mind because as I was riding a crowded streetcar home I pressed the shuffle on my iPod and her voice came on. And, with that, came calm and a smile. She is still out there recording, performing and working it. It is my understanding that she enjoys a rather lucrative nightclub career in Japan. It doesn't matter, tho. Her music brings me joy. This is one bitch who I respect and who rocks my world with her music. Check her out if you get a chance. I know she sometimes performs in New York. If you're there --- I'd advise you to get a ticket!