Grammy winning album for Best Contemporary Blues Album Don't Give Up On Me was recorded live in the studio over a four day period, with an ensemble anchored by Burke's church organist Brother Rudy Copeland and producer Joe Henry, and features contributions from guests Daniel Lanois and revered gospel outfit The Blind Boys of Alabama. From the opening title track, crafted with the typical genius of Dan Penn (the man responsible for "Do Right Woman" and "Dark End of the Street"), and sung with passionate restraint by Burke, the soul ethic is in full, rich bloom. "We just went in and did it." Burke said. "It was an amazing experience, and one of the first that I've done naturally live since the fifties. With the new technology it's amazing what can be done, but it's also amazing what can't be done, we're goin' back to the roots. It was a pleasure." While any exposure to the Burke style guarantees instant and enduring appreciation, the roster of song contributors on this disc are, in and of themselves, a strong testimonial to Burke's implacable spell: Bob Dylan, Brian Wilson, Van Morrison, Elvis Costello, Nick Lowe, Tom Waits, Joe Henry, with key contributions from legendary veteran writers Dan Penn, Mann & Weil, all contributed commercially unreleased original compositions, either specifically custom tailored to, or innately suited for the interpretive genius of this unrivaled singer. (In Morrisos case, both songs wound up on his own latest album). Never before has such a cross-section of revered pop talent enthusiastically converged on one album, but there are precious few vocalists on the aerie artistic level of Solomon Burke.......... 1. Don't Give Up On Me 2. Fast Train 3. Diamond in Your Mind 4. Flesh and Blood 5. Soul Searchin' 6. Only A Dream 7. The Judgement 8. Stepchild 9. The Other Side of the Coin 10. None of Us Are Free 11. Sit This One Out
