By Special Request
Carmen McRae · 1956
48 min · 17 tracks · jazz
Carmen McRae's warm, sophisticated voice weaves through lush jazz arrangements with effortless elegance.
Why this album works
This album is significant for its embodiment of the burgeoning jazz vocal tradition in the mid-1950s, featuring timeless standards that are foundational to the genre. It has been praised for McRae's personal interpretations and emotional depth, helping to solidify her reputation as an influential jazz singer and paving the way for future artists in the genre.
- Best for
- steady melodic flow throughout warm voice for cozy evenings for relaxed gatherings
- Context
- By Special Request was released in 1956, marking Carmen McRae's fifth studio album. At this stage, she was gaining recognition as a leading figure in jazz, following her pivotal album 'Carmen Sings Monk' released the previous year, which showcased her unique vocal style and interpretative skills.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Aretha Franklin· Bing Crosby· Ella Fitzgerald· Dave Brubeck· Chet Atkins· Ray Charles· Dean Martin· Andy Williams
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Give Me the Simple Life 2:22
- 2 Sometimes I'm Happy 2:36
- 3 Love Is Here to Stay Standout 2:42
- 4 Something to Live For 3:15
- 5 I Can't Get Started Standout 3:19
- 6 Yardbird Suite 2:00
- 7 Just One of Those Things 2:42
- 8 This Will Make You Laugh 3:25
- 9 My One and Only Love Standout 3:12
- 10 I'll Remember April 2:40
- 11 Supper Time 3:02
- 12 You Took Advantage of Me 2:38
- 13 They All Laughed 2:12
- 14 Keep Me in Mind 3:08
- 15 Ooh (What Cha Doin' to Me) 2:19
- 16 If I'm Lucky (I'll Be the One) 3:04
- 17 Georgia Rose 3:16
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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