When it comes to gospel singers, few figures are as influential as Sister Rosetta Tharpe, who often led a traditional gospel choir while ripping up rock 'n' roll guitar solos on a Gibson SG (the same guitar played by AC/DC's Angus Young). Just after World War II, Tharpe joined forces with another singer, Marie Knight (pictured). The pair had a big hit with the call and response song "Up Above My Head."
Knight continued singing with Tharpe into the '50s, and eventually became a pastor in New York City. In 2002, she returned to the studio to record a tribute to Tharpe. That session led to others, and in 2007, she released an album called Let Us Get Together. Her big, smooth voice combines with acoustic blues-style guitar to create a deeply moving and deeply grooving sound.
This week she comes to Brattleboro with soul singer Danny Brooks to play a benefit for WVEW FM 107.7, Brattleboro Community Radio.
May 2, $15/students, $18/general, Vermont Jazz Center, 72 Cotton Mill Hill, Studio 222, Brattleboro, www.brattleborotix.com.
