Search - JIMERSON, Douglas :: STEPHEN FOSTER'S AMERICA

Politally Correct or Stupid?

Robert P. Brown | Head of Jeddore, Nova Scotia Canada | 02/27/2001

(2 out of 5 stars)

"The major thing wrong with this recording is the editing out of the word "darkies" which is like eliminating "cowboy" from western songs. If this guy is so sensitive, why include "Massa" which is a tribute to a slave master. Also, He's Got The Whole World In His Hand is generally attributed to the modern age.If you want to hear a much better rendition of Foster, and other music of the period, try and find Thomas Hampson, "American Dreamer" and "An Old Song Re-Sung"."

PC Pablum

cjerson | 11/05/2000

(2 out of 5 stars)

"The tenor is fine, but the musical accompaniment is primitive. However, my main objection is that I do not at all approve of PC censorship and Bowdlerization. As if anyone who might be offended by the term "darkey" is going to be listening to Stephen Foster anyway! Get a life."

Timeless and Beautiful

D. L. Piper | New York, NY United States | 08/01/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Faithful renditons of great songs. Every American should know the words to at least half a dozen of these gems. I do not agree with reviewers who believe he should have included the original slurs....these "reviewers" should imagine themselves in Mr. Jimmerson's place, who was singing for a diverse crowd in our nation's capitol in 1990's America. Accuracy ("authenticity"?)is of course crucial, but it is absurd to demand that the performer sing these uncomfortable lines in this setting."