Album: Just a Little Lovin'

Introduction
" Just a Little Lovin'" is a tribute album released by American singer-songwriter Shelby Lynne in 2008, as a homage to the late British vocalist Dusty Springfield. Completely produced by Phil Ramone, the album includes Lynne's distinct and individual analyses of Springfield's tunes. It includes 10 tracks, nine of which are covers of songs taped by or connected with Springfield, and an original structure penned by Lynne, which commemorates the legendary artist's emotional music and withstanding legacy.

Background and Production
After launching her seriously acclaimed album "Suit Yourself" in 2005, Shelby Lynne began thinking of her next project. Influenced by her love for Dusty Springfield's music and recognizing the similarity in their perceptiveness, Lynne decided to explore Springfield's songbook and put her own spin on the material. This concept resulted in the creation of "Just a Little Lovin'", which takes its title from a tune by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil from Springfield's 1969 classic "Dusty in Memphis". The goal of the project was not to recreate or imitate Springfield's initial versions, however rather to showcase Lynne's own special skill and perspective in a really authentic tribute.

Lynne got renowned producer Phil Ramone to bring her vision to life. Ramone's extensive experience and renowned credentials, that include working with the similarity Billy Joel, Paul Simon, and Ray Charles, made him the perfect partner for the task. Taking a minimalist and stripped-down approach, the duo recorded the album live at Capitol Studios in Los Angeles utilizing vintage microphones and equipment to record true analog warmth. Lynne was backed by an excellent cast of artists, including Dean Parks on guitar, Kevin Axt on bass, Gregg Field on drums, and Rob Mounsey on keyboards.

Track List and Highlights
" Just a Little Lovin'" consists of ten tracks that represent different periods and styles in Dusty Springfield's career, from traditional pop tunes to R&B- inflected ballads. The tracklist is as follows:

1. Simply a Little Lovin'
2. Anyone Who Had a Heart
3. You Don't Have to Say You Love Me
4. I Only Want to Be with You
5. The Look of Love
6. Breakfast in Bed
7. Willie and Laura Mae Jones
8. I Don't Want to Hear It Anymore
9. Pretend
10. How Can I Be Sure

Throughout the album, Lynne's soulful voice and intimate delivery showcase her deep connection to the product. Amongst the standout tracks, Lynne provides a raw, emotive performance of "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me" and offers a fresh, understated treatment to "Anyone Who Had a Heart". She likewise includes a dose of Southern grit to "Willie and Laura Mae Jones", turning it into a hypnotic blues number.

In "Pretend", the only initial tune on the album, Lynne pays a fitting homage to the spirit of Dusty Springfield by composing a tune that catches her essence, while still keeping Lynne's own songwriting expertise and character.

Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "Just a Little Lovin'" received extensive praise from both critics and fans, who applauded Lynne's heartfelt efficiencies and the album's tasteful production. It reached No. 41 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking a significant industrial achievement for the vocalist.

Over a years later on, "Just a Little Lovin'" stays an important album in Shelby Lynne's discography, as well as an effective monument to Dusty Springfield's enduring impact on contemporary artists. Through this tribute, Lynne shows her incredible flexibility as a singer and interpreter, while paying homage to the inspiring music of her fellow soul sister.