Odetta, Hit Or Miss | Throwback Vibez

In the 160^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2025), we recollect and reflect on “Hit Or Miss” by ‘The Voice of the Civil Rights Movement,’ Odetta.

The vibes, the vibes, those Throwback Vibez! Throwback Vibez is a column that celebrates awesome songs from the past.  The records that grace this column are older, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ancient – no fossils 🦴! All genres of music are welcome. In the 160^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2025), we recollect and reflect on “Hit Or Miss” performed by Odetta.  

Odetta (1930 – 2008) sings, and adds, “Ain’t nobody / Just like this / I gotta be me / Baby, hit or miss.” The ‘Voice of the Civil Rights Movement,’ renowned for folk music, blues, and spirituals, comes through strong on the original, “Hit Or Miss”. “Hit Or Miss” is the fourth track from her 1970 album, Odetta Sings, her only album released by Polydor.  Notably, “Hit” was one of only two songs written by Odetta on the album (“Movin’ It On” was the other).  Take one listen to “Hit Or Miss” and that sugar, honey, iced tea slaps something fierce!

“Sitting here / All by myself / Trying to be / Everybody else.” No, ma’am, no sir, can’t do it – “I gotta be me!” “Hit Or Miss” is funky from the get-go, PERIOD.  The drumming is electrifying, setting the tone of this folk-blues/soul cut.  It’s not only that badass, cooking groove, though.  The rhythmic, robust bass line provides a mighty anchor.  The rhythmic acoustic guitar affirms the folksy identity, while the piano further enhances the song’s rhythmic identity. Later, the horns up the ante, with their bright, biting, and dynamic sound.  The star of the show, however, is the big-voiced, personality-laden Odetta.  She doesn’t just sing, she sangs, with conviction, baby! The lyrics are simple and repetitive but carry weight. Pushing 60 years after its release, “Hit Or Miss” remains potent and timeless.  This blues joint right here is unforgettable! No miss whatsoever!

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Odetta » Odetta Sings » Republic » 1970

Odetta, Hit Or Miss: Throwback Vibez No. 160 (2025) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Republic; AcatXlo, OpenClipart-Vectors, Speedy McVroom from Pixabay]

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