After only one listen to "Mercy," I was hooked on Duffy and interested in getting her story. Where does her sound come from? Is it intentionally "retro"? When did she start singing? Was she a child star? Was she a big fan of Dusty and Lulu? So many questions...
Duffy arrived at WFUV with her band and manager. We had agreed in advance to two songs live, plus an interview, but once the band sound-checked, Duffy asked if they could do three songs. That was more than fine with me. As you'll hear, her voice is the real deal and her story is quite entertaining.
Originally recorded May 5, 2008.
More About Duffy
With a voice akin to those of Dusty Springfield and Petula Clark, Duffy got her blue-eyed soul sound in part from her parents' limited record collection. Rough Trade label owner Jeannette Lee heard young Duffy's voice as the teenager sang in Welsh bands. Lee paired her up with former Suede guitarist Bernard Butler to write the songs that would form her debut, Rockferry.
Listen to the previous Favorite Session, or see our full archive.
Copyright 2008 WFUV
