Ladies and gentlemen, I’m unworthy but honored to partner with Lo-Flo Records in introducing “Alone in the Stars,” a masterpiece containing the inner workings and talents of the New Orleans-bred multifaceted jazz legend and trailblazer Harold Battiste Jr., who, unfortunately, passed away in 2015.
For those who may not be familiar, Battiste is a crucial figure behind some of the most iconic songs in music history, such as Sam Cooke’s “You Send Me” (I recommend the 1963 Live at The Harlem Square Club version) and Sonny and Cher’s “I Got You Babe” and “The Beat Goes On.”
His contributions also extend to Ike and Tina Turner’s “River Deep, Mountain High” album and Tom Waits’ “Blue Valentine.” As a New Orleans pioneer, he was a sound arranger and co-founder of AFO (All For One) Records, the first African-American-owned label in the American South, established in 1961 with R&B and jazz trumpeter Melvin Lastie.
AFO Records would gain recognition in 1962 with the release of Barbara George’s chart-topping single, “I Know (You Don’t Love Me No More).”
And now, beyond the grave, he’s still impacting us with his craftsmanship and musical flair via “Alone in the Stars,” a product of a collaboration in the ’70s between Dr. Battiste Jr. and Lo-Flo Records founder and renowned ’70s writer and composer Jane McNealy, who had this chef-d’œuvre in a vault until now.
“Alone in the Stars” is a dreamscape filled with cosmic piano work from McNealy. Battiste Jr. melds seamlessly into the piece with his velvety smooth saxophone, which operates against the bossa nova-esque drum beat. McNealy and Battiste Jr.’s collaborative work creates a hypnotic atmosphere that causes the listener’s mind to drift and meander into memories, possibilities, and make-believe.
It’s a true work of art, and we are fortunate to continue experiencing Battiste Jr.’s artistry, thanks to McNealy and Lo-Flo Records. The exciting news is that more singles are on the horizon, including “Florence Nightingale,” “All of You,” and an extended version of “Why Can’t I Have It Too.”
Written by Taylor Berry
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