Esther Phillips - Home Is Where The Hatred Is

Those of you who listened to Kanye West's Late Registration more than a few times this year probably got a taste of one of soul music's finest recordings without even knowing it. No, I'm not talking about 'Ye here (although arguably the album is very good and 'Ye would be happy to let you know that if you ask). There would be no "My Way Home" for Kanye West & Common if not for the Gil-Scott Heron-written soul anthem called "Home Is Where The Hatred Is". So hard-hitting and deeply moving is the song that it continues to inspire fans of soul music more than 35 years after it was first recorded. Although Gil-Scott's version is considered by some to be the definitive, it is no less definitive than the soul-stirring rendition of his song performed by the late Esther Phillips.

Originally known as Little Esther, Ms. Phillips was a soul chanteuse of the highest order -- and one of the grand pioneering voices of soul music. Her career stretched over four decades, several record labels (including a stint on Atlantic during the soul years), various bands, and a 16 year battle with heroin addiction that nearly destroyed her. It was after leaving rehabilitation that she recorded "Home Is Where The Hatred Is" for the Kudu label in 1971. Its powerful, nearly autobiographical anthem, makes it one of the most painfully beautiful soul records ever made.

Listen, then, to what true soul music is all about by checking out this track. "Home is where the hatred is/Home is filled with pain/And it may not be such a bad idea if I never/never went home again..." For a more detailed biography about Esther Phillips, visit Soulwalking.

(Click here to purchase Home Is Where The Hatred Is: The Kudu Years 1971-1977 by Esther Phillips from Amazon)