James Booker says “Let Them Talk”
November 23rd, 2007 by Wade Tatangelo in News
The flamboyant James Booker had a serious heroin addiction that landed him a prison term and an eyepatch (his eye was knocked out in a fight). Otherwise, he would probably hold his rightful place atop the pantheon of New Orleans piano greats. This rare footage of Booker performing the ballad “Let Them Talk” showcases his distinctive piano playing style: a mesmerizing blend of classical, jazz, boogie woogie, stride and pop that complements rather than overwhelms the lyric. An underrated vocalist, Booker compensates for his lack of range by offering a spine-tingling emotion.
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December 12th, 2007 at 6:39 pm
nice footage. booker\\\’s like a phantom, we have to catch glimpses of him when we can.
December 12th, 2007 at 7:25 pm
Yeah, I would have loved to have been able to see him during his Maple Leaf days.