What makes For the First Time by Pete Fountain notable?

This album showcases Fountain's ability to bridge the gap between jazz and pop, contributing to the popularity of jazz during the late 1960s. While it did not chart extensively, its diverse selection of tracks resonated with audiences, helping to keep traditional jazz relevant in an era dominated by rock and roll. When 'For the First Time' was released in March 1968, Pete Fountain was already established as a popular clarinetist, known for his vibrant performances in New Orleans jazz. This album followed his successful run on television and radio, solidifying his transition from local musician to national star while exploring more mainstream appeal through familiar show tunes and pop songs.

Who is For the First Time for?

For the First Time works well if you're into lively tunes for social gatherings, short bursts of joyful energy and easy listening for casual moments.

How many songs are on For the First Time?

For the First Time has 11 tracks, running approximately 32 minutes.

For the First Time

Pete Fountain · 1968

32 min · 11 tracks · jazz

A lively blend of traditional jazz and pop standards, showcasing bright clarinet melodies over lush orchestrations.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Basin Street Blues — This track highlights Fountain's mastery of the clarinet, blending soulful phrasing with a classic New Orleans rhythm that embodies his roots.
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Can't Take My Eyes Off of You — Fountain's interpretation transforms this pop classic into a jazzy delight, showcasing both his technical skill and emotional depth in performance.
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Mood Indigo — This rendition demonstrates a sophisticated arrangement that allows Fountain's clarinet to weave intricate melodies, capturing the song's moody essence beautifully.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

lively tunes for social gatherings
short bursts of joyful energy
easy listening for casual moments
bright melodies that uplift mood
playful arrangements with nostalgic charm

Maybe skip if you

prefer lengthy, immersive pieces
seek deep emotional introspection

Where this album fits

Career context: When 'For the First Time' was released in March 1968, Pete Fountain was already established as a popular clarinetist, known for his vibrant performances in New Orleans jazz. This album followed his successful run on television and radio, solidifying his transition from local musician to national star while exploring more mainstream appeal through familiar show tunes and pop songs.
Stylistic neighbors: Al Hirt· Doc Severinsen· Harry James

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Cabaret (From the Musical Production: "Cabaret") 2:55
2 There's a Kind of Hush (From All Over the World) 2:40
3 Basin Street Blues 3:59
4 Windy 2:45
5 Night and Day 2:51
6 One of Those Songs (Le Bal de Mo: Temouille) 2:36
7 Mood Indigo 3:28
8 Can't Take My Eyes Off of You 3:10
9 The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovey) 2:45
10 Anything Goes 2:20
11 I Gotta Right to Sing the Blues 3:27

What to play next

Listen next

Those Were the Days

1968

Go back to

Pete Fountain Plays and the Angels Sing

1967

Full Pete Fountain discography Artists like Pete Fountain

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata