Two artists—one singer-songwriter, one rapper—each tackled the same song, showcasing the influence of the blues in modern music. “O Death, Where Is Thy Sting” is a traditional song from the genre, and Brooklyn-based The Bones of JR Jones keeps it that way. Stripping back the track to the basics, his twangy soul and instrumentals infuse the melancholic lyrics. Jumping forward into the current day, rapper Cecil Otter flips the sound for his version of “O Death”, adding even more versatility to the blues tune.
“O Death, Where Is Thy Sting” is featured in the upcoming Chasing the Blues, from Fulton Market Films. In Chasing the Blues, “Two rival record collectors attempt to con an old lady out of a rare but cursed 1930s blues record. When a series of unfortunate circumstances lands them in jail, the feud festers for over 20 years until they are released from prison and get a second chance at snagging the vinyl – this time from a more formidable foe…”
Listen to The Bones of JR Jones and Cecil Otter’s interpretations of “O Death, Where Is Thy Sting”, and stay tuned for more news about the release of Chasing the Blues.
Saint Audio 