Remembering Mose Allison: Spotify Playlist Tribute

One measure of a songwriter’s influence is by the number of musicians who record a given composer’s songs. Earlier this week, songwriter, arranger and pianist Mose Allison passed away at the age of 89, leaving behind a songbook that has been covered by a stellar cast of performers over the past several decades. In remembrance of the talented blues and jazz performer, Saturday Stream features a Spotify Playlist of songs written by Allison during his decorated career.

A native of Mississippi, Allison was a successful solo artist who released his debut album Black Country Suite in 1957. His subsequent 1958 LP Local Color included his arrangement of “Parchman Farm” which became one of his most popular songs – a version recorded by John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers with Eric Clapton is featured on the playlist.

Allison’s “Young Man’s Blues” begins the set with the rendition The Who performed on their standout 1970 LP Live At Leeds. Along with Clapton and The Who’s Pete Townshend, other top-notch guitarists represented on the playlist include Buddy Guy, Jeff Beck (The Yardbirds), Bonnie Raitt and Gov’t Mule’s Warren Haynes who’s joined by Derek Trucks on a take on “Young Man’s Blues” featuring “Good Morning Little School Girl” within.

The recently departed Leon Russell, as well as Paul Butterfield, The Clash, Quicksilver Messenger Service, Bill Wyman and Ralph Stanley also help make up the collection. There’s also a set of songs featuring Van Morrison accompanied by Allison and others.