What makes By Special Request by Carmen McRae notable?

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. 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.

Who is By Special Request for?

By Special Request works well if you're into steady melodic flow throughout, warm voice for cozy evenings and for relaxed gatherings.

How many songs are on By Special Request?

By Special Request has 17 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Released 70 years ago

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.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady melodic flow throughout
warm voice for cozy evenings
for relaxed gatherings
short tracks for casual listening
sophisticated elegance in every song

Maybe skip if you want

seeking high-energy anthems
prefer lengthy, immersive albums

Where this album fits

Career 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: Billie Holiday· Sarah Vaughan· Ella Fitzgerald