Joanna Dean was one of the most promising blues artists of the late '80s. Signed to a major deal with Polydor, she was compared to Janis Joplin and Bonnie Raiit following the release of her debut album, Misbehavin', in 1989. While the album showcased her skills as an interpreter with unique versions of nine tunes, including the Rolling Stones' "Gimme Shelter," Dean wrote or co-wrote all but one tune on her second album, "Code of Honor." Recorded with a band, Bad Romance, the album was marked by a dark, somber tone and included heart-retching songs about alcoholism and suicide. One tune, "Love Hurt," was recorded as a duet with Tom Kiefer of Cinderella. ~ Craig Harris, Rovi
