Thanks, yes, that was the successful element: I came up with the right questions to get him talking and get out new info–I definitely worked a while coming up with the questions beforehand.
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In late November 1934, 17 year old Ella Fitzgerald (who at the age of 15 had been sent to live in an orphanage and later to a reformatory school & who survived by singing on the streets of Harlem), together with two of her girlfriends, went to Amateur Night at the historic Apollo Theater. When her name was drawn out of a hat to perform she told them she was so nervous she could hardly move her legs, let alone dance. They told her, "you have a nice voice, sing. She did. She won. The rest…well you know.
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The second part to the rest is that the amazing innovative drummer Chick Webb spoke to her mother and became a legal guardian and put her in front of his band and they became immensely successful together. Chick was not a strong and healthy man and when he passed away from lumbar scoliosis and other complications she became the leader of the band, now also called “Ella and her Fellas” and they had continued success until finally Ella was signed to Decca on her own.
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Interesting tidbit.
Chick was extremely important to Ella’s development and career. He was an amazing musician and band leader and an innovator in the development of the modern drumset. Quite a legacy!
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Buddy Rich described Webb as "the daddy of them all.” Coming from a man who’s ego was exceeded only by his immense talent, that tells you all you need to know.
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My first attempt at the Carmen McRae catalog on Tidal. Up through Strange Fruit. I’d say regarding Strange Fruit I prefer Billie’s rendition. Also, I tend to lean towards @serhans’s comment regarding a preference for Ella and Sarah Vaughn.
Interesting collection I stumbled on earlier tonight.
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I love that cover! Looks like a fun compilation!
Second attempt at Carmen McRae. Really digging this, great sound, strong support from her combo and her voice is slightly “smokey” here, which fits the music. Featuring Clifford Jordan, Eric Gunnison, Al Foster, and George Mraz. From 1987. Her interpretation of Ruby My Dear is a high point.
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Perfect jazz for a Sunday Brunch. Bluesy BUrrell is a more relaxed 1962 date on the Moodsville label. Kenny is in fine form here, kicked back, Coleman at times sounds as if he’d prefer to break out rather than the restraint the session calls for.
The tone Kenny and Coleman gets if fantastic. The album features:
- Alto Saxophone – Leo Wright (tracks: 8)
- Bass – George Tucker (tracks: 8), Major Holley (tracks: 1 to 7)
- Congas – Ray Barretto (tracks: 1 to 7)
- Drums – Eddie Locke (tracks: 1 to 7), Jimmie Smith (tracks: 8)
- Guitar – Kenny Burrell
- Piano – Gildo Mahones (tracks: 8), Tommy Flanagan (tracks: 1 to 7)
- Tenor Saxophone – Coleman Hawkins (tracks 1,4,5,7)
Streaming on Tidal, probably won’t add this to my core CD collection. The sound on Tidal is nice, warm and full. Mimosa anyone?
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Just added three titles to my physical media library (Christmas presents from my wife); Two SACDs and one CD:
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Well I finally got around to listening to early Wynton Marsalis with Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers, on the Timeless Label Album of the Year. This was recorded in Paris in 1981. After listening through tis is one strong date by everyone. Wynton is in fine form here. Maybe slightly more reverb on his horn than what I personally care for, but is playing is strong and assured. This album was my introduction to Wynton and the basis for me pursuing some of his other albums. Basically, this album has sat on the shelf too long, and was over do for a spin.
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A favorite of mine. The DSD version on my system sounds great to my ears. Can’t wait to hear what better speakers may bring to the table.
The Dave Brubeck title must be the CD if I am not wrong. The SACD version appears to be backordered.
I like Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers. This one is queued up on Qobuz for a later listening.
Nope. SACD.
Back order may currently be an issue though.
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