Lavern Baker was a rhythm and blues singer known for her powerful voice and energetic stage presence. She was born Delores LaVern Baker in 1929 in Chicago, Illinois, and began singing in clubs in the 1940s. Baker’s big break came in 1953 when she signed with Atlantic Records. She had several hits in the 1950s and early 1960s, including “Tweedle Dee,” “Jim Dandy,” and “I Cried a Tear.” Baker’s style blended R&B with elements of pop, jazz, and gospel, and she was known for her soulful delivery and dynamic live performances. She continued to record and perform throughout her career, earning a reputation as one of the greatest R&B singers of her time. Baker was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991 and passed away in 1997.
1. Tweedlee Dee
“Tweedlee Dee” is a popular rhythm and blues song written by Winfield Scott. It was first recorded by LaVern Baker in 1954 and released as a single on the Atlantic Records label. The song became a major hit, reaching number 4 on the Billboard R&B chart and number 14 on the pop chart.
“Tweedlee Dee” is a lively, uptempo song with a catchy melody and lyrics that tell the story of a woman who is in love with a man who doesn’t return her affections. The song’s upbeat rhythm and Baker’s powerful vocals helped make it a classic of the R&B genre. Over the years, “Tweedlee Dee” has been covered by many artists and remains a popular choice for retro and oldies radio stations.
2. Jim Dandy
“Jim Dandy” is another classic R&B song recorded by LaVern Baker. It was written by Lincoln Chase and was released as a single in 1956. The song became one of Baker’s biggest hits, reaching number 1 on the Billboard R&B chart and number 17 on the pop chart.
“Jim Dandy” is an uptempo, rock and roll-style song with a catchy, playful melody. The lyrics tell the story of a confident, self-assured man named Jim Dandy who is the “lover man” that all the women want. Baker’s energetic vocals and the song’s infectious rhythm helped make it a hit and a favorite among fans of 1950s R&B music. Like “Tweedlee Dee,” “Jim Dandy” has been covered by many artists over the years and remains a popular choice for retro music enthusiasts.
3. I Cried a Tear
“I Cried a Tear” is another classic R&B song recorded by LaVern Baker. It was written by Fred Jacobs and was released as a single in 1958. The song became a major hit for Baker, reaching number 2 on the Billboard R&B chart and number 6 on the pop chart.
“I Cried a Tear” is a soulful ballad with a bluesy feel. The lyrics express the pain and heartache of lost love, with Baker’s powerful vocals conveying a deep sense of emotion. The song’s arrangement features a prominent saxophone solo, adding to its dramatic impact.
“I Cried a Tear” is considered one of LaVern Baker’s signature songs and has been praised for its raw emotional power and Baker’s dynamic vocal performance. It remains a classic of the R&B genre and is a standout track in Baker’s catalog of hits.
4. See See Rider
“See See Rider,” also known as “C.C. Rider” or “Easy Rider,” is a traditional blues song that has been recorded by many artists over the years, including LaVern Baker. The song’s origins can be traced back to the early 20th century, and it has been adapted and recorded in various styles, including blues, jazz, and rock and roll.
LaVern Baker recorded her version of “See See Rider” in 1963, and it became one of her signature songs. Baker’s rendition of the song features her powerful, soulful vocals and a lively, upbeat arrangement that showcases her dynamic range and vocal prowess.
“See See Rider” has remained a popular and enduring song in the blues and R&B genres, with numerous artists recording their own versions over the years. It is often performed as a blues standard and is a favorite among fans of classic rhythm and blues music.
5. Saved
“Saved” is a gospel-influenced song by LaVern Baker, released in 1961. The song was written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, who were known for their songwriting partnership and their work with many artists, including Elvis Presley and The Coasters.
“Saved” features Baker’s powerful vocals and a lively, energetic arrangement that reflects the song’s gospel roots. The lyrics express gratitude and joy for being “saved” or redeemed, with Baker’s impassioned delivery adding to the song’s emotional impact.
“Saved” was a hit for Baker, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard R&B chart. The song has since become a gospel and R&B classic, with its message of faith and salvation resonating with listeners. Baker’s rendition of “Saved” is considered one of her standout performances and showcases her versatility as a singer who could excel in both R&B and gospel music.
6. I Waited Too Long
“I Waited Too Long” is a soulful ballad by LaVern Baker, released in 1957. The song was written by Neil Sedaka and Howard Greenfield, who were prolific songwriters known for their work in the pop and rock and roll genres.
“I Waited Too Long” features Baker’s emotive vocals and a lush, orchestral arrangement that complements the song’s poignant lyrics. The song’s narrator laments waiting too long to express their love, leading to heartache and regret.
“I Waited Too Long” showcases Baker’s ability to convey deep emotion through her singing and is a standout track in her discography. The song was not a major commercial success but has since become a favorite among fans of Baker’s music and is admired for its heartfelt performance and soulful delivery.
7. Play It Fair
“Play It Fair” is a song by LaVern Baker, released in 1955. It was written by LaVern Baker herself, along with her manager, Al Stanton, and was released as a single on the Atlantic Records label.
“Play It Fair” is an upbeat, uptempo rhythm and blues song with a catchy melody and lyrics that warn against playing games in love. Baker’s powerful vocals and energetic delivery helped make the song a hit, reaching number 2 on the Billboard R&B chart.
“Play It Fair” is a classic example of Baker’s distinctive style, blending R&B with elements of pop and gospel. The song’s lively rhythm and Baker’s dynamic performance make it a standout track in her catalog and a favorite among fans of 1950s R&B music.
8. Lots and Lots of Love
“Lots and Lots of Love” is a song by LaVern Baker, released in 1957. The song was written by Baker herself, along with her manager, Al Stanton, and was released as a single on the Atlantic Records label.
“Lots and Lots of Love” is a mid-tempo rhythm and blues song with a catchy melody and lyrics that express affection and devotion. Baker’s soulful vocals and heartfelt delivery helped make the song a favorite among fans.
“Lots and Lots of Love” showcases Baker’s talent for interpreting a variety of musical styles, from upbeat rockers to heartfelt ballads. The song’s warm, romantic sentiment and Baker’s emotional performance make it a standout track in her discography.
9. Bumble Bee
“Bumble Bee” is a song recorded by LaVern Baker in 1960. The song was written by Joe Josea and was released as a single on the Atlantic Records label.
“Bumble Bee” is an uptempo rhythm and blues song with a lively, energetic feel. The lyrics use the metaphor of a bumble bee to describe a man who is causing trouble and heartache. Baker’s powerful vocals and dynamic delivery bring the song to life, showcasing her talent for combining soulful singing with a strong sense of rhythm.
“Bumble Bee” was not a major commercial success but has since become a favorite among fans of Baker’s music. The song’s catchy melody and Baker’s spirited performance make it a standout track in her catalog and a testament to her skill as a singer in the R&B genre.
10. Shake a Hand
“Shake a Hand” is a classic gospel-influenced R&B song originally written and recorded by Faye Adams in 1953. The song became a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B chart. LaVern Baker covered “Shake a Hand” in 1960, and her version also became very popular.
Baker’s rendition of “Shake a Hand” features her powerful vocals and passionate delivery, making it a standout track in her discography. The song’s lyrics speak about the power of human connection and the importance of reaching out to others in times of need.
“Shake a Hand” has been covered by many artists over the years and remains a beloved classic in the R&B and gospel genres. Baker’s version, in particular, is celebrated for its soulful interpretation and emotional depth, showcasing her talent as a vocalist.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
