If you’re wondering who Shelby Lynne is, sadly, that proves the point. In the early 90s, she released several country albums and singles without solid success. Working with different producers each time out, Shelby was something of a country chameleon, trying out different styles (mainstream country, country pop, even Western swing). Nothing stuck.

More accurately, nothing fit. Uncomfortable with the musical directions she was being pushed in, and frustrated by the lack of control she had over her career and image, Shelby broke free from Nashville’s leash in 1995, seeking solace (and silence) in sunny California.

Five years later, Shelby was back with I Am Shelby Lynne. Produced by Bill Bottrell (Sheryl Crow’s Tuesday Night Music Club), what would become her breakthrough album melded Memphis soul, blues, and rock influences, while leaving room for a twang or two. This was music on her terms, with Shelby singing lyrics she’d written. (The title reminds me of that old game show, To Tell The Truth<: The real Shelby Lynne was finally standing up.)

Even with a decade’s worth of recordings to her credit, Shelby took home the Grammy for Best New Artist of 2000 (beating out the trés-talented Papa Roach and Sisqó). Her follow-up, Love, Shelby, didn’t quite capitalize on the honor, however. Pursuing a more polished pop path (even tarting it up on the CD cover), that disc received mixed reviews. She won back critics with subsequent releases, but not the public spotlight her talent deserves.

Much of this is chronicled (much better, more thoroughly) in a recent New York Times Magazine feature. Hopefully you’ll hear even more soon, since a new CD, Just A Little Lovin’, arrives January 29. Inspired by the rock n’ roll chanteuse to whom she was sometimes compared, Shelby covers nine Dusty Springfield classics. Rounding things out to a nice even ten is “Pretend,” an original Shelby penned for the project.

“Your Lies,” the opening track from I Am Shelby Lynne, is a good representation of why I’m looking forward to the latest from Ms. Lynne. If she can capture even a fifth of what hooked me years before, I’m back on board:

Just A Little Lovin’ is available for pre-order from Amazon.