Singer-songwriter Amos Lee got his big break when he was invited to open for Norah Jones in 2004, where he was able to calm the fanatical crowd with his soothing, soulful voice and folksy, acoustic style mixed with a bit of percussion. And his popularity has been growing ever since.
Lee got his start when he picked up a guitar and began writing his own songs in college at the University of South Carolina. He graduated with a degree in English, which he used it to teach elementary education. He later left the education field to focus his energy on songwriting.
His self-titled, self-produced 2003 EP caught the attention of soul sensation Norah Jones. Two years later, Lee recorded and released another self-titled album that was said to “bring a feel of country sweetness to northern blues.” The next year, in 2006, he released his second album, the slightly angsty Supply and Demand. His third album, Last Days at the Lodge, was released in 2008.
This past January, he released thirteen new songs on Mission Bell, his most recent album.
While personally the album is not a favorite, the bluesy Mission Bell still gets good marks. Lucinda Williams and Willie Nelson are featured on two songs, which add depth and spirit to Amos Lee’s already powerful songs. In my opinion, Mission Bell is notably more soothing and personal than his previous albums
A must-listen to on this album is definitely “Stay With Me.” With its peaceful background vocals, the song gives me the timeless feeling one gets while watching a classic movie like Dirty Dancing. It tells a story that makes me wonder who he is singing to.
So, if any of you collegiettes are looking to add an expressive voice and calm melodies to your playlists, then Amos Lee is a must. Mission Bell is worth a listen, but be sure to check out his other albums as well!