The original jazz class act, Ellington knew how to surround himself with extraordinary talent. Early on, the Duke knew that vocal jazz was a matter of making the human voice sound like an instrument. This collection features the right vocalist paired with just the right song. Al Hibbler and Herb "The Bronze Buckaroo" Jeffries are standouts while "On a Turquoise Cloud" sung by Kay Davis will surely raise a few goosebumps.
Long before television mesmerized the world, radio was the original home entertainment center. And it was make believe ballroom time when Glenn Miller's band teamed with The Andrews Sisters for a series of broadcasts in 1939 & 40. As for songs, we have the usual suspects, like "In the Mood" and "Oh Johnny, Oh, Johnny, Oh!" But there's also little unexpected gems like "I've Got No Strings" and "Yodelin' Jive." Oh, and those cigarette ads for Chesterfield - deliciously politically incorrect.
Yes, it's Mr. Irrepressible himself and in fine form, I must say. Here's a great way to get to know the extroverted Mr. Callaway, with "The Jumpin' Jive," " Nagasaki " and, of course, "Minnie the Moocher." Hi-de-ho! You can hail this Cab and take him all the way uptown.
Could there be a more perfect singer? No way! And Sinatra earned his chops working with Tommy Dorsey. You'll hear the making of a sensational artist in these recordings from 1940 - 42. There's a great range here.from ballads to novelty tunes to hot swing numbers. Bonus! Jo Stafford, Connie Haines and the Piped Pipers chime in, as well. Yummy!
Support Your Public Radio Station
