Esperanza Spalding is undeniably one of the most talented young artists to enter the game, in a long, long time. I’m mesmerized. This woman got me to actually the jazz standard, Body and Soul, which has NEVAH been a favorite of mine.

She sings it in Spanish here, but it sounds just as wonderful live, in English. For those who don’t know the song/words, here they are…in English

Esperanza on double bass and vocals, Leo Genovese on piano, and Otis Brown III on drums.

BodyandSoul.mp3
Enjoy!

Body and Soul

My heart is sad and lonely
For you I sigh, for you dear only
Why haven’t you seen it?
I’m all for you body and soul

I spend my days in longing
And wondering why
It’s me you’re wronging
I tell you I mean it
I’m all for you body and soul

I can’t believe it
It’s hard to conceive it
That you’d turn away romance
Are you pretending?
Looks like the ending
Unless I could have one more chance to prove
Dear, my life’s a wreck you’re making
You know that I’m yours for just the taking
I’d gladly surrender body and soul

A Nappy Girl