Amy Winehouse’s landmark album Back to Black is approaching its 20th anniversary, bringing renewed attention to the music and creative partnerships that shaped her career.
In a new oral history published by Billboard, producers, musicians, and collaborators share memories of recording the 2006 album, which combined Winehouse’s personal songwriting with influences from Motown, jazz, and 1960s soul.
Producers Mark Ronson and Salaam Remi played central roles in developing the record’s sound. The Brooklyn-based Dap-Kings also contributed instrumentation, helping create the vintage arrangements heard on songs including Rehab, You Know I’m No Good, and Back to Black.
Released on October 27, 2006, the album brought Winehouse international recognition and helped her secure five Grammy Awards in 2008.
The anniversary also brings renewed interest in the recording sessions, creative decisions, and personal experiences that influenced the album.
Winehouse died in July 2011 at age 27, but Back to Black remains a defining part of her musical legacy, continuing to introduce listeners to her distinctive voice and songwriting.