King Pleasure 100 -- March 24, 2022

Vocalese pioneer King Pleasure (Clarence Beeks) was born 100 years ago today, on 24-March-1922. He became famous when he recorded "Moody's Mood For Love" with Eddie Jefferson's lyrics. 

Blossom Dearie sang with King Pleasure on this recording of "Moody's Mood For Love."

Jon Hendricks 100 -- September 16, 2021

Jon Hendricks, one of the pioneers of vocalese was born 100 years ago today, on 16-September-1921.  He was a veteran of the D-Day landings in World War II. 

I like Lambert, Hendricks & Ross.  I never got to see his show, Evolution of the Blues, while it played at Keystone Korner for five years.

Freddy Cole and Annie Ross, RIP -- July 23, 2020

Pianist and singer Freddy Cole, brother of Nat King Cole, died last month.  I always enjoyed it when KCSM or KJAZ would play one of this new recordings.

Singer Annie Ross has died.  She was one of the pioneers of vocalese.  I like Lambert, Hendricks and Ross.

Eddie Jefferson 100 -- August 3, 2018

Eddie Jefferson, the father of vocalese, was born 100 years ago today, on 03-August-1918.  I loved listening to his music on KJAZ.  I remember when someone shot and killed him in 1979.

Jon Hendricks, RIP -- November 24, 2017

Jon Hendricks has died.  He was one of the pioneers of vocalese.  I like Lambert, Hendricks & Ross.  I never got to see his show, Evolution of the Blues, while it played at Keystone Korner for five years.