Grandma’s Hands was written by Bill Withers and his live performance of the song on the BBC in May of 1974 is a master class in soulful laid back perfection . Bill sets up the song with a story about, ‘someone you love more than anyone ever before or ever will ‘. His Grandma.
Bill is probably better known for the success of Lean on Me and Ain’t No Sunshine. Both of these classics have been loved and covered by artists the world over.
When pianist Kelvin Haisman brought this song to the table for a recording date we’d arranged , it was an immediate ‘Yes’! from me. Maybe, like me, you’re not as familiar with it. It’s also been covered by an impressive list of heavy hitters, including Barbra Streisand.
THE STUDIO : Oceanic in Brookvale Sydney AU is one of the city’s premier studios and is was sheer joy to record there. Masterful Ted Howard was on the desk and it was an all round stunning day. We recorded a few jazz and blues songs and this is the 1st release.
Debzo and Engineer Ted Howard
Kelvin arranged the song differently to anyone I’d ever heard before by reharmonising the chords. We kept the groove true to form and I think we reached the heart and depth of the matter.
What do you think ?
Grandma’s Hands ( search Deborah Dicembre feat. Kelvin Haisman ) is live on iTunes , Spotify and all streaming platforms; wherever you get your music. Show us some love and if you like our recording hit the likes, reviews and ‘share’ the love buttons. Thanks so much !
Deb Dicembre Music 