I first heard Billie Holiday’s music when – ironically – I was on holiday with a friend called Billy. We were camping, and as you often do, you make a tape of music that means something to you. Well, I had Nina Simone, and my friend had Billie. Fair trade, huh? I like to think that I gave back something in return.
When I first heard Billie’s music, I wasn’t blown away. Her music is a slow creeper, something you think you can do without, then later find out you can do no such thing. Her music wraps itself up in the life that you want to live – one that is mournful, thoughtful, and full of emotion. It is not a life that is lived lightly, or avoiding getting close to someone, to avoid pain.
No, a life as indicated my Billie Holiday’s music is one that is rich. It happens in Paris – or at least a Paris in our hearts. One where our true love has left us, and we are alone again – back to where we started. Only this ‘back again’ is a rich return – one that is much wiser, stronger, smarter. Ready to love, no less.
Well, enough from me. What is happening on this site? Well, it is a fan site, so we will be asking what she means to you. What are your favorite songs, what albums have you got, and which mean the most to you? We will have links to all the best things you can get, to have more BH in your life. And, of course, the music. We want to include – as well as a biography – images, thoughts, quotes, and film from her amazing life in music.
Stay tuned, coming back soon…