By Alana Adams
Amy Jade Winehouse was born Sept. 14, 1983 in the Southgate area of North London. It was not known then, but we would all fall deeply in love with her music, and be saddened at the news of her death last month on July 23.
In 2003, Winehouse released her debut album “Frank.” It was received positively by most music critics. Many people were stunned by the strong, soulful voice that Winehouse projected. Who would think that such a small young woman could belt out tunes comparable to all-time jazz greats like Etta James and Billie Holiday?
Winehouse wrote the song lyrics on “Frank” after a break-up. Like many great songwriters, Winehouse was able to take her personal pain and struggles and pour them into her music. Songs like “Stronger Than Me” and “You Sent Me Flying” reveal a deep honesty and a refusal to shy away from her feelings.
In 2006, Winehouse released her second studio album “Back To Black.” In this album, she once again sang about her relationships as well as her experiences with drinking and drugs. This album produced one of her most famous hits “Rehab,” as well as “Back to Black,” and “You Know I’m No Good.” Winehouse was nominated for six Grammy Awards for this album and won five, including Best New Artist, Record of the Year and Song of the Year for “Rehab.”
Winehouse’s infectious tunes and soulful voice swept many people away. She was brought her own style to the classic genres of soul and R&B, and her music inspired many fans to discover other artists like Adele, Duffy and Jessie J. Unfortunately, as talented as Winehouse was she was also a troubled soul. She battled drug and alcohol addiction for years and wandered in and out of rehab. Before her death, it was reported that she made a decision to stop drinking, having previously given up drugs.
It is speculated that she went against her doctor’s advice to wean herself off alcohol slowly instead of quitting cold turkey. Although toxicology reports have not been released to date, news reports state that her death might have been a reaction to her immediate withdrawal. She was said to be sober for three weeks prior to her passing. She was just 27 years old.
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