Joan Baez - Do I just not get it?

I have almost every album that Joan Baez has made and had the privilege of seeing/hearing her in concert many years ago. I think her voice is wonderful and have great admiration for her courage and convictions "back in the day." I grew up in the 50s and 60s, during the folk revival. I like Bob Dylan's voice too. One of my favorite albums by Joan Baez was the one where she did all Bob Dylan songs.

But, each to her or his own. No one should be forced to listen to music that makes them wince!

Holly

Here's an interesting chronological biography about Joan

Thank you for that link, Fatparrot. I had no idea that she was still so active in humanitarian causes - and it looks as if I am missing more albums than I realized, too!

Holly

Amusing to hear Goatwuss take from the other side of 50. It makes me re-examine my early impressions of Joanie. When I hark back to memories of her singing 'Sad Eyed Lady of the Lowlands', or 'Ride Me High', I don't remember vibrato, and certainly not thinness (yes I know, Goatwuss, you didn't suggest thinness).

My impressions are all of warm rich tones; a revelation in their day. Remember, we were just coming off The Weavers' bouncy, earnest, dustbowl version of folksong, with female vocals tuned like a bagpipe, all nasal Anglo-Celtic skirl. I'll have to go dig out Baez Sings Dylan - was the vibrato really there all along?

I suspect, as J.D. offers, that you had to be there.
Nowadays; over-sharing, over-warbling...

I like her, no I don't like her, whats the point? Yes she made her debut during a time of political upheaval & the music held a great deal of meaning to a generation that time has past by. Now Joan will be judged on her merits as an artist, good bad or otherwise by a new generation. Deal with it. Personally the current state of the union sucks, job insecurity, high gas prices, & mistrust of of elected officials, maybe once again these old artists will give give meaning to an uncertain world, who knows.