Fontella Bass ailing

Post-Dispatch pop music critic Kevin Johnson's column this week reports that famed St. Louis vocalist Fontella Bass has been having some health problems. The singer, whose work has included jazz, gospel and blues as well the hit single "Rescue Me," suffered a stroke in September and has lost the use of her left arm and leg.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Ms. Bass a couple of years ago, and, while I realize one can't make a definitive judgment of a person's character based on a short conversation, she sure seemed like a real nice lady. Here's hoping she enjoys a speedy and complete recovery.