Amalia Rodrigues

[Adam]

Anyone here a fan of the Portuguese Fado singer?

Would you have any recommendations of records or CDS to start with?

[paul secor]

I'm not an afficianado, but I have one Amalia Rodrigues CD - Fados e Guitarradas au Portugal - Accord 401132. I bought it on the recommendation of writer/record label owner John Storm Roberts, who does have a knowledge of her music. I've enjoyed it when I've played it. That's the most I can say. I don't have any experience with other recordings to make any comparisons.

[kh1958]

I'm enjoying her late '60s era recording with Don Byas. The Byas tenor weaves seamlessly with the vocalist and multiple guitarists and a bassist. I'm enjoying this one.

I also have an anthology, The Art of Amalia Rodrigues, that is worthwhile, and an old 10 inch LP that is fine as well.

[Stereojack]

I'm enjoying her late '60s era recording with Don Byas. The Byas tenor weaves seamlessly with the vocalist and multiple guitarists and a bassist. I'm enjoying this one.

I like this one too. I was drawn to it originally because of the presence of Don Byas, but I came to realize that Rodriguez is a master and a true original.

[jostber]

I bought the Art of Amalia CD for my mother a couple of years ago and I think these recordings are just amazing. Singing from the soul and wonderful backup from the musicians.

[kh1958]

The ten inch LP I found recently has a photo of her on the back (looking beautiful) and the photo is credited to William Savory.

[Caravan]

The Amália House Museum is around the corner from where I live. I've never been there. Although, I'm totally into Don Byas, I never played that record of her with him for more than a minute. Just can't stand it and find the singing unbearable. My wife (who is Portuguese) hates her too. Apart from the music, she was a collaborator of the ancient (fascist) regime.

[kh1958]

I find her voice and vocal style pleasing.

The dubious source known as Wikipedia says: "During the frenetic post-April 25, 1974 period she was falsely accused of being a covert agent of the PIDE, causing some trauma to her public life and career. In fact, during the Salazar years, Rodrigues had been an occasional financial supporter of some communists in need. "