Fontella Bass - Rescue Me Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who were the musicians involved in the recording of 'Rescue Me'?

   Fontella Bass recorded 'Rescue Me' with a talented group of musicians at Chess Studios. Minnie Riperton provided background vocals, Maurice White (later of Earth, Wind & Fire) was on drums, Louis Satterfield on bass, Gene Barge on tenor sax, Sonny Thompson on organ, and Pete Cosey and Gerald Sims on guitars.

2. How many takes did it take to record 'Rescue Me'?

   Fontella Bass recorded 'Rescue Me' in just three takes at Chess Studios in Chicago. This quick session highlights the professionalism and talent of Bass and the musicians involved.

3. What unique method was used for the ending of 'Rescue Me'?

   Producer Billy Davis used an unconventional method for the ending of 'Rescue Me.' Instead of having the engineer fade the song, he walked around the studio and tapped each musician on the shoulder to have them stop playing one by one, creating a unique fade-out effect.

4. Did Fontella Bass initially receive songwriting credit for 'Rescue Me'?

   No, Fontella Bass did not initially receive songwriting credit for 'Rescue Me.' Despite her significant contributions, it took over 20 years and much litigation before she was officially acknowledged and given her due share of the songwriting royalties.

5. What inspired Fontella Bass's call-and-response vocals in 'Rescue Me'?

   The call-and-response vocals in 'Rescue Me' were unintentional. Fontella Bass forgot some of the words while recording and filled in with 'Ummm, ummm, ummm,' drawing from her church experience. This improvisation became an iconic part of the song.

6. What legal action did Fontella Bass take related to the song 'Rescue Me'?

   In 1990, Fontella Bass sued American Express and its advertising agency for using 'Rescue Me' in a TV ad without authorization. She was awarded $50,000 plus punitive damages in 1993, which helped her set her life in order during a low point.