What better way to start off this blog than with a “four poster” that has it all. These are the ‘girl singer’ | ‘boy singer’ vocalists that got their start, (but limited exposure), during the earlier era of big bands. These compilations, assembled from material in the Capitol Records vaults, put the singers right out at center stage – supported by seasoned session musicians, (many of them survivors of the infamous 1942–1944 musicians strike).
This series is particularly interesting since the selections are not the signature tunes normally associated with the vocalists. Arranging and accompaniment are uniformly good - performed and conducted by artists who worked at various times for Capitol Records throughout the period when these recordings were originally made, (1942 - 1965).
My Funny Valentine
Dinah Shore – with hauntingly beautiful, sparse, piano accompaniment by André Previn.
I'll Never Smile Again
Clear-voiced Keely Smith – over a lush string arrangement by Billy May.
I Guess I'll Have To Change My Plan
Tony Bennett – out in front of the Count Basie band.
Until The Real Thing Comes Along
Classic Dean Martin – with orchestra conducted by Nelson Riddle.