Yesterday we read that Island Records will be releasing Lioness: Hidden Treasures next month (December). The album will apparently include covers of the Shirelles & Donny Hathaway, as well as a duet with rapper Nas. Body and Soul, Amy's duet with the legendary Tony Bennett, will also be featured.
Understandably, the idea of of Lioness's posthumous release is generating some debate. Many are concerned that the album may constitute an exploitation of Amy, who is no longer here to speak for herself. Here at Unapologetically POP, we encourage this kind of constructive, mature dialogue. Amy's dedicated fanbase should be concerned about whether or not her sponsors are "milking the cash cow" (pardon the crude analogy). Amy's loving fans - Gregory & I among them - should have a say.
Personally, we have no doubt that this material on Lioness will commemorate Amy as an artist, and not as a tragedy. Amy's fans would not accept the album any other way. We hope that Lioness is a tasteful tribute to the beautiful Amy Winehouse's life & musical legacy.
We will be back in December with our verdict.
Unapologetically,
Minna