What makes Portrait of Carmen by Carmen McRae notable?

This album is notable for showcasing McRae's unique vocal style and emotional delivery, contributing to her rising prominence in the jazz scene during the late 1960s. It received positive critical reception and solidified her reputation as a key interpreter of contemporary songs, influencing future generations of jazz vocalists. By 1968, Carmen McRae was already an established figure in jazz, having released several acclaimed albums. 'Portrait of Carmen' arrived as her first studio album after joining the prestigious label Columbia Records, marking a significant step in her career as she sought to reach a broader audience.

Who is Portrait of Carmen for?

Portrait of Carmen works well if you're into lyrical storytelling with elegance, for relaxed afternoons and expressive vocals for emotional depth.

How many songs are on Portrait of Carmen?

Portrait of Carmen has 11 tracks, running approximately 33 minutes.

Portrait of Carmen

Carmen McRae · 1968

33 min · 11 tracks · jazz

A lush blend of jazz elegance and lyrical storytelling, characterized by McRae's expressive vocals.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

lyrical storytelling with elegance
for relaxed afternoons
expressive vocals for emotional depth

Maybe skip if you want

seeking fast-paced excitement
prefer standalone tracks only

Where this album fits

Career context: By 1968, Carmen McRae was already an established figure in jazz, having released several acclaimed albums. 'Portrait of Carmen' arrived as her first studio album after joining the prestigious label Columbia Records, marking a significant step in her career as she sought to reach a broader audience.
Stylistic neighbors: Billie Holiday· Sarah Vaughan· Ella Fitzgerald