In our second installment of Anniversary Albums we are celebrating 45 years since the release of the Queen of Psychedelic Soul Janis Joplin's last studio album "Pearl".
Released on January 11, 1971, this was unfortunately a posthumous release. Janis was recording "Pearl" when she died from a suspected heroin overdose on October 4, 1970.
"Pearl" was more gospel and soul inspired compared with the blues rock work that Janis produced with Big Brother and the Holding Company.
This was largely thanks to Janis working with Doors producer Paul A. Rothchild who wanted to make an album that showcased Janis's amazing vocals more.
They certainly achieved this and there is a big emphasis on soul balladry throughout "Pearl" as witnessed on this scorching track "Trust Me".
"Pearl" was both critically and commercially successful upon it's release. It is just a shame Janis was not around to see that recognition.
It reached number one on the Billboard 200 charts. While famed rock critic Robert Christgau who is very hard to please gave it an A- rating.
Rolling Stone Magazine ranked "Pearl" 122 in their list of the 500 greatest albums of all time.
- Sam
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