"i like it like dat!"

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i like it like dat! is a studio album by American singer Della Reese, released in February 1966 on ABC–Paramount Records. It was her second album with the label and features 12 blues-influenced tracks, many of them covers. The album was produced by Lee Magid after Bob Thiele was replaced, with Bobby Bryant arranging and conducting. Six tracks appear on each side of the vinyl.

The songs include blues standards such as Billy Eckstine’s Fool That I Am and two Johnny Mercer tunes, Travelin’ Light and Drinkin’ Again.

Two singles were released from the album: “Tain’t Nobody’s Bizness If I Do” in February 1966 and “If It’s the Last Thing I Do” in June 1966. The reception was mixed: Billboard praised Reese’s gospel-influenced style and energy, while Cash Box gave a positive note about its backing and chart potential. Critic Will Friedwald said it can feel a bit jukebox-like but praised the ballads, and AllMusic gave it 2 out of 5 stars.

Della Reese was already known for her versatility as a singer and had major success on RCA Victor, including the 1959 hit “Don’t You Know?” She joined ABC–Paramount in 1965 and released this as her second album with the label, following C’mon and Hear Della Reese! The liner notes credit Lee Magid and Bobby Bryant.