Jackie DeShannon is an artist with a rich and diverse musical history that surpasses her well-known hits ‘What the World Needs Now is Love’ and ‘Put a Little Love in Your Heart.’ Over a career spanning many decades, DeShannon has been connected to influential musical figures such as Elvis Presley, the Beatles, Bob Dylan, and Burt Bacharach, as well as the legendary Wrecking Crew. Her considerable discography ranges across various genres, from soul to folk-rock to standards, both on her solo albums and in numerous cover versions of her original works.
However, there’s a previously undisclosed part of Jackie DeShannon’s life and career that even her devoted fans might not know about. Born in Hazel, Kentucky as Sharon Lee Myers, she began her musical journey as a young girl, showcasing her talent for singing country songs, which earned her a regional radio show at the tender age of 13. Her early performances were recorded by her mother, and these recordings have now been unearthed and will be released under the title ‘The Sherry Lee Show.’ These rare tracks will offer a glimpse into a moment in music history that’s been kept hidden for decades.
Listening to these early recordings, you will be able to hear the remarkable nuances and depth in the voice of the young Jackie DeShannon. Raised in a musical family, her love for R&B and rockabilly shines through, as well as her flawless rendition of country standards. Her powerful voice is a testament to her passion and drive, even at that young age.
Her journey into music led her to a friendship with the King of Rock and Roll himself, Elvis Presley, and the legendary guitarist, Jimmy Page. Overcoming the limitations placed on female artists at the time, DeShannon began making music that defied stereotypes and merged different genres to create something unique. Her collaborations with Burt Bacharach and Hal David, her interactions with established musicians, and her own extraordinary compositions add to her legacy.
Jackie DeShannon’s story is not just about her voice or her songs, but also about her struggle to find her place in a male-dominated industry. As we rediscover the roots of her music and candidly connect with her journey, we’re afforded a fresh perspective on this legendary artist.
