Bettye LaVette

1. Artist Header

Artist name: Bettye LaVette
Country / region: United States
Active years: 1960s–present
Primary role(s): Singer, songwriter

2. Overview

Bettye LaVette is an American singer whose recording career began in the early 1960s. Her work spans several decades and includes releases across multiple labels. She has recorded both original material and interpretive projects and has remained active as a touring and recording artist into the 21st century.

3. Style and Genre (Established Terms Only)

Primary genres:

Soul
Blues

Associated styles:

Soul blues
Rhythm and blues

Instrumentation:

Vocals
Ensemble band arrangements (guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, horns as applicable)

Notes:
LaVette’s recordings are vocal-centered and typically feature soul and blues song structures. Her work aligns with post-1960s soul and blues recording traditions, using full band arrangements common to those styles.

4. Career Outline (Factual Timeline)

Born in Michigan, United States
Began recording professionally in the early 1960s
Released early singles during the 1960s on major and independent labels
Continued recording and performing intermittently through subsequent decades
Re-established a regular release schedule in the 2000s with multiple full-length albums
Continues to perform and record as a solo artist