Hot Press Classics returns today with a deep dive on Amy Winehouse’s 2006 classic Back To Black. Throughout their discussion, Paul Nolan and Stuart Clark examine the artist's irreverence and dexterity in her songwriting, her closeness with the American hip-hop scene, and her “London street cool.”

Over the course of her career, English singer / songwriter Amy Winehouse sold over 30 million worldwide, starting with her debut 2003 record Frank, which was nominated for the UK's Mercury Prize, while the song ‘Stronger Than Me’ won her the Ivor Novello Award for Best Contemporary Song from the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors.

She was best known for her iconic contralto vocals and blending genres such as soul, rhythm and blues, reggae and jazz.

Released in 2006, Back to Black went on to become one of the best selling albums of all time, as well as one of the best-selling albums in UK music history. It also earned Winehouse five grammy awards, tying the then record for the most wins by a female artist during a single night.

In the podcast, Stuart Clark also recounts his encounters with the late pop star, and brings up the artist's unapologetically charming loudness, her care and warmth for those around her, and how Winehouse was lacking the support network to help her through her mental health issues.

Elsewhere, Paul and Stuart discuss Winehouse’s incredible artistic chemistry with Mark Ranson, her legendary charisma and her immeasurable legacy on British pop and soul.

The episode was produced by Paul Nolan and edited by Flo Laurent.

Check it out below or on Apple Podcasts: