Dusty Springfield, born Mary O’Brian, was always able to use her voice to convey a sense of tragedy. Her early hits resonate with a weight that stood her out from her 60s pop contemporaries. Her life was littered with sadness as she battled mental health issues and addiction. She had to endure the stigma of gossip related to her sexuality in a World that was not ready to be tolerant. Dusty died of breast cancer in 1999 at just 59.
Emerging from the Springfields as a solo artist in 1963 she had a string of timeless hits and as a TV host introduced Britain to many fine R&B acts of the day. Commercially her career stalled in the 70s resulting in an 80s hiatus that was resurrected in part due to a collaboration with the Pet Shop Boys. By the end of her life her reputation as one of the finest singers that this country has ever produced was restored. Here are five essentials…
I Only Want To Be With You - Following disbandment of ‘The Springfields’ Dusty’s solo career was launched with a number 4 UK hit in 1963. Written by Mike Hawker and Ivor Raymonde, the song comes storming out of the gates with perfect pop melody. It is just about as good a debut single as you will ever hear.
Some Of Your Lovin’ - This tender top 10 hit from 1965 showcased Dusty’s R&B influences from the other side of the Atlantic.
You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me - Adapted from the Italian song ‘Lo Che Non Vivo (Senza Te)' this became a number one smash in 1965. The orchestra and cast of backing singers produce a sense of foreboding with Dusty’s soaring vocal completing the drama. If you like this also try ‘All I see Is You’.
Son Of A Preacher Man - With this song Dusty transitioned from pop star to soul singer. The accompanying album ‘Dusty In Memphis’ is her most enduring and regularly cited as a ‘classic’ despite it’s lack of commercial success at the time. The song itself was a top 10 hit in 1968 and is known to many thanks to Quentin Tarantino's film ‘Pulp Fiction’.
What Have I Done To Deserve This? - This 1987 number 2 hit and duet with the Pet Shop Boys brought Dusty back to the mainstream.
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