Bettye LaVette

Soul singer-songwriter Bettye LaVette [born 1946] grew up in Detroit, Michigan and made her first record in 1962, aged sixteen. This led to a tour with rhythm and blues musicians Clyde McPhatter, Ben E. King, Barbara Lynn, and then-newcomer Otis Redding. Later on she had a brief stint with The James Brown Revue, released several albums and recorded with various record companies, among others her hometown label, Motown. Late 2012 saw the release of her latest album, “Thankful N’ Thoughtful” and furthermore the release of her autobiography, “A Woman Like Me”, variously described as ‘engrossing’, ‘riveting’, ‘hair-raising’ and only suitable for the over 18s.

Bettye LaVette’s unique eclectic musical style combines elements of soul, blues, rock and roll, funk, gospel, and country music.