Janis Joplin

Pearl

First released1971

Pearl was recorded at Multiple Studios in Los Angeles between 1970 and early 1971, following Janis Joplin's death in October 1970, with the album completed posthumously by her band Full Tilt Boogie Band. Producer Paul A. Rothchild, known for his work with The Doors, oversaw the project and helped complete the recordings that Joplin had begun before her fatal heroin overdose. The album featured a more polished, soul-influenced sound compared to Joplin's previous work, reflecting her artistic direction toward more refined vocal arrangements and horn sections. Pearl was released in January 1971 and became a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard charts, partly due to the single "Me and Bobby McGee," which was one of the final recordings Joplin completed before her death. The album stands as Joplin's final studio release and represents a significant moment in rock history as a major artist's work released posthumously.