LaVern Baker, born Delores LaVern Baker on November 11, 1929, in Chicago, Illinois, was an influential American rhythm and blues singer. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, she gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s with hits like “Tweedle Dee,” “Jim Dandy,” and “I Cried a Tear.” Her music blended elements of R&B, rock and roll, and jazz, making her a pioneering figure in the early rock and roll era. Baker was one of the first African American women to gain mainstream success in a genre dominated by male artists. She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991, cementing her legacy as a trailblazing artist.
1. Tweedlee Dee
“Tweedlee Dee” is a song by LaVern Baker, released in 1954. Written by Winfield Scott, the song became one of Baker’s most successful hits, reaching number 4 on the Billboard R&B chart and crossing over to the pop charts. With its catchy, upbeat melody and playful lyrics, “Tweedlee Dee” showcases Baker’s vibrant vocal style and her ability to convey joy and energy through her music. The song’s success helped establish her as a significant figure in the early days of rock and roll and R&B. “Tweedlee Dee” remains a classic, illustrating Baker’s impact on the music industry and her role in shaping the sound of mid-20th-century popular music.
2. Jim Dandy
“Jim Dandy” is a lively and energetic song by LaVern Baker, released in 1956. Written by Lincoln Chase, the song became one of Baker’s biggest hits and is characterized by its upbeat rock and roll rhythm and Baker’s powerful, spirited vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a charming and daring man named Jim Dandy, who comes to the rescue of people in various predicaments. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious energy made it a favorite of the era, solidifying Baker’s place as a prominent figure in the early days of rock and roll. “Jim Dandy” was later covered by Black Oak Arkansas in the 1970s, further cementing its legacy in music history.
3. I Cried a Tear
“I Cried a Tear” is a soulful ballad by LaVern Baker, released in 1958. Written by Fred Jay and Al Julia, the song showcases Baker’s emotive vocal delivery and her ability to convey deep emotion through music. The track features a lush orchestral arrangement with a prominent saxophone solo, adding to its melancholic and heartfelt atmosphere. The lyrics tell the story of heartbreak and longing, with Baker lamenting the end of a love affair. “I Cried a Tear” became one of Baker’s most successful songs, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and solidifying her reputation as a leading voice in R&B and soul music.
4. See See Rider
“See See Rider,” also known as “C.C. Rider” or “Easy Rider,” is a traditional blues song that has been covered by numerous artists over the years. LaVern Baker’s rendition, released in 1963, is one of the standout versions of this classic. Her powerful and soulful interpretation brought a fresh energy to the song, showcasing her vocal prowess and emotional depth. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a woman addressing her unfaithful lover, a common theme in blues music. Baker’s version of “See See Rider” contributed to her legacy as a formidable and influential blues and R&B singer, reinforcing her status in the music industry.
5. Saved
“Saved” is a powerful and upbeat song by LaVern Baker, released in 1960. Written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the song features Baker’s dynamic vocal performance and a lively gospel-influenced arrangement. The lyrics describe a transformation from a life of sin and trouble to one of redemption and joy, emphasizing themes of salvation and spiritual renewal. With its infectious rhythm, spirited backing vocals, and Baker’s commanding presence, “Saved” stands out as a celebration of newfound faith and the positive changes it brings. The song has been covered by various artists over the years, but Baker’s original version remains a standout classic in her discography.
6. I Waited Too Long
“I Waited Too Long” is a song by LaVern Baker, released in 1960. This track reflects her powerful vocal style and emotional delivery, showcasing her ability to convey deep feelings through music. The song, written by the renowned songwriting team Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, deals with themes of regret and longing, capturing the essence of heartache and the complexities of relationships. “I Waited Too Long” is a notable example of Baker’s contributions to the R&B genre and highlights her impact on music during a pivotal time in her career.
7. Play It Fair
“Play It Fair” is a song by LaVern Baker, released in 1956. Written by Fred Jay and produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the track features Baker’s distinctive, soulful voice delivering a message of integrity and fairness in romantic relationships. With its energetic rhythm and engaging melody, “Play It Fair” reflects Baker’s ability to blend rhythm and blues with upbeat, catchy tunes. The song’s playful lyrics encourage honesty and straightforwardness, highlighting Baker’s blend of musical talent and lyrical wit. “Play It Fair” is a great example of Baker’s impact on the R&B genre during the mid-1950s.
8. Lots and Lots of Love
“Lots and Lots of Love” is a song by LaVern Baker, released in 1959. This track is a quintessential example of Baker’s vibrant and powerful R&B style. The song features a catchy melody and upbeat rhythm, coupled with Baker’s dynamic vocal performance. “Lots and Lots of Love” reflects themes of affection and romance, a common subject in Baker’s music. It stands out as a testament to her ability to infuse energy and emotion into her recordings, contributing to her reputation as a pioneering artist in rhythm and blues.
9. Bumble Bee
“Bumble Bee” is a song by LaVern Baker, released in 1955. It’s one of her most popular hits, showcasing her energetic vocal style and charismatic performance. The song features a catchy, upbeat rhythm and playful lyrics, using the metaphor of a bumblebee to express feelings of love and desire. “Bumble Bee” became a significant hit, reaching number 7 on the Billboard R&B chart and helping to solidify Baker’s place in the rhythm and blues genre. The track remains a classic example of Baker’s influential sound and her contribution to the development of early rock and roll and R&B.
10. Shake a Hand
“Shake a Hand” is a song by LaVern Baker, released in 1954. Written by the prolific songwriting duo Joe Seneca and Eddie “Cleanhead” Vinson, the song is a lively R&B track with a rhythm and blues feel. LaVern Baker’s version of “Shake a Hand” features her characteristic energetic and emotive vocal delivery, which helped the song become a hit, reaching number 5 on the Billboard R&B chart. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a memorable example of Baker’s contributions to the rhythm and blues genre and her influence on the early rock and roll scene.