Once Upon a Summertime cover

Once Upon a Summertime

Blossom Dearie · 1959

35 min · 12 tracks · jazz

A whimsical blend of jazz and soft pop, infused with Blossom Dearie's delicate vocals and playful arrangements.

Why this album works

This album is notable for its critical acclaim and showcases Dearie's distinctive style that influenced future generations of jazz singers. It features several tracks that became popular standards, with 'Our Love Is Here to Stay' and 'Tea for Two' remaining staples in jazz repertoire. The album also highlights the cultural shift towards more personal and introspective music in the late 1950s.
Career context
By 1959, Blossom Dearie was already an established figure in the jazz scene, known for her unique vocal style. 'Once Upon a Summertime' followed her successful albums on the Verve label and showcased her ability to reinterpret standards while maintaining a charmingly intimate approach. This album solidified her role as a prominent female jazz vocalist during a time when the genre was dominated by male artists.
Stylistic neighbors
Sun Ra· Charles Mingus· Miles Davis

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Tea for Two Standout 3:20
  • 2 Surrey With the Fringe on Top 4:16
  • 3 Moonlight Saving Time 1:59
  • 4 It Amazes Me 4:16
  • 5 If I Were a Bell 3:05
  • 6 We're Together 2:02
  • 7 Teach Me Tonight 2:38
  • 8 Once Upon a Summertime Standout 2:43
  • 9 Down With Love 1:39
  • 10 Manhattan 4:16
  • 11 Doop-Doo-De-Doop (A Doodlin' Song) 2:15
  • 12 Our Love Is Here to Stay Standout 3:10

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata