Ball and Chain
Janis Joplin
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6 facts about this song
Big Mama Thornton's Influence"Ball and Chain" is a blues song initially written and recorded by Big Mama Thornton in 1961.
- Big Mama Thornton was a groundbreaking American rhythm-and-blues singer and songwriter known for her powerful voice.
- She is known for being an influential figure in blues music, particularly for female artists.
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Connection with Janis JoplinJanis Joplin performed a remarkable cover of "Ball and Chain," which has since become one of her signature works.
- It was the explosive performance of this very song by Joplin at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967 that brought her national attention.
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Monterey Pop FestivalThis festival marks a watershed moment not only for Joplin's career but for the history of rock music itself.
- The live performance of "Ball and Chain" was so impactful it was included in the documentary film of the festival.
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Recording and ReleaseWhile Thornton recorded the original song, it was Joplin's version with Big Brother and the Holding Company that was released as a single and included in their album "Cheap Thrills."
- The album topped the Billboard 200 albums chart for eight weeks and was certified Gold, further amplifying the song's influence.
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Copyright IssueUnaware of the US copyright laws, Big Mama Thornton had signed away her renewal rights for "Ball and Chain."
- As a result, Thornton saw virtually none of the profits from Joplin's recording, a situation that has since been used as an example of the exploitation of black musicians.
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Legacy of the Song"Ball and Chain" has been recognized as a classic of blues music.
- It was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999.
- The song showcased the raw emotional power of both artists, Thornton and Joplin, securing their places in music history.
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"Ball and Chain Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 19 Apr. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/33213110/Janis+Joplin/Ball+and+Chain>.
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