"Start Walkin" Honors Nancy Sinatra

Nancy Sinatra is one of the most iconic performers to come out of the 1960s pop music scene. She was (and is) an independent-minded artist and a strong woman who forged her own path in an often male-dominated industry. As part of a year-long celebration of Nancy’s career, Light in the Attic Records has released Nancy Sinatra: Start Walkin’ 1965-1976, a new collection featuring 23 of her best songs. She made her television debut on Welcome Home Elvis, a variety show hosted by her famous father Frank, which marked the King of Rock and Roll's return to the United States after his military service in Germany. She also appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show, and released several singles. But her early releases didn't reflect the kind of music she really wanted to make. It was time for a change.

Fast forward a bit, and Nancy's label hooks her up with Lee Hazlewood, a songwriter and producer who had found success penning songs for artists like Duane Eddy. Hazlewood introduced Nancy to some of his music, including a tune called “These Boots Are Made For Walkin.” Nancy took the song, which Hazlewood had originally intended to record himself, and turned it into a powerful rallying cry for women everywhere. Instead of commenting on a relationship from the male perspective, “These Boots Are Made For Walkin” became a statement of female empowerment. Along with the other terrific pop songs on her debut album, the Hazlewood produced Boots, her music showcased a smart, sassy, and confident performer at the top of her game. Boots was the beginning of a fruitful professional partnership with Hazlewood, which produced several more albums, including the bona fide classic Nancy & Lee. 

Hazlewood's offbeat lyrics and unique production style, paired with Nancy's warm, sensual voice, are fully evident on a string of hits, including "Sugar Town," "Bang Bang" and their duets "Summer Wine," "Some Velvet Morning," and "Jackson." Nancy also performed the title song to the James Bond film "You Only Live Twice." Her collaborations with Hazlewood continued into the 1970s, when the duo released Nancy & Lee Again. Nancy wasn't just a musical force of nature, she also became a fashion icon, thanks to her distinctive fashion sense and cool ensemble, which included a mix of sweaters, miniskirts, and of course, boots. She also appeared in films such as Speedway, where she co-starred with Elvis, and television shows like The Man From U.N.C.L.E, as well as her own variety specials, including Movin' With Nancy.

Start Walkin’ is an outstanding collection. It's a great way to start exploring Nancy's music if you haven't heard it before. Once you listen you'll quickly discover why she has many famous fans, including U2 and Lana Del Rey. If you're already a convert, you'll appreciate these lovingly remastered versions of her most memorable songs. The anthology also includes a 64 page booklet, featuring an essay by Amanda Petrusich, an interview with Nancy conducted by co-producer Hunter Lea, and many never before seen photos. As part of their year-long tribute to Nancy's work, Light In The Attic Records will also be releasing expanded editions of Boots and Nancy & Lee. For more information on Start Walkin' 1965-1976, follow this link to the page on the Light In The Attic site: https://lightintheattic.net/releases/7266-start-walkin-1965-1976.