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.
Why this album works
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.
- Best for
- lyrical storytelling with elegance for relaxed afternoons expressive vocals for emotional depth
- 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
- 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 I'm Always Drunk in San Francisco Standout 3:01
- 2 Elusive Butterfly Standout 2:59
- 3 Day by Day Standout 2:25
- 4 When You Get Around to Me 2:54
- 5 Walking Happy 2:33
- 6 My Very Own Person 2:55
- 7 Ask Any Woman 2:58
- 8 Boy, Do I Have a Surprise for You 3:21
- 9 Loads of Love 3:54
- 10 I Haven't Got Anything Better to Do 4:29
- 11 Wonder Why 2:12
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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