Trav’lin’ Light by Queen Latifah

Trav’lin’ Light by Queen Latifah (2007)
Queen Latifah originally was known as a rapper, but I am pleased to say she has come a long way from rapping lyrics. In 2004, she recorded a collection of pop standards on the Dana Owens Album. In this album, she has expanded her vocal range and interpretation and given us some pre-rock songs that just sound so good.

Full string and horn sections, Stevie Wonder featured on harmonica on the “Georgia Rose” track, and Queen Latifah’s laudable singing talent make this CD an enjoyable listening experience. Opening cut is “Poetry Man,” made famous by Phoebe Snow. Latifah gives it her own style and spin. Songs range from the 1920s all the way to the 2007 Hairspray musical “I Know Where I’ve Been.”

For other information, check out an NPR Music interview with Queen Latifah or a New York Daily News review of the album.