What makes Something Wonderful by Carmen McRae notable?

Something Wonderful received critical acclaim for its sophisticated arrangements and McRae's powerful delivery, contributing to her status as a key figure in the jazz scene of the early 1960s. The album is noted for its exploration of theatrical songs, showcasing McRae's ability to transcend traditional jazz boundaries and influence future vocalists in the genre. Released in 1963, Something Wonderful was Carmen McRae's sixth studio album and marked her continued evolution as a prominent jazz vocalist. Following her 1961 album, Carmen Sings Monk, this record further solidified her reputation for interpreting popular standards with an innovative approach to phrasing and emotional depth.

Who is Something Wonderful for?

Something Wonderful works well if you're into short energetic bursts of joy, theatrical flair in every track and vibrant vocal performances throughout.

How many songs are on Something Wonderful?

Something Wonderful has 8 tracks, running approximately 6 minutes.

Something Wonderful

Carmen McRae · 1963

6 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A vibrant collection of jazz standards infused with McRae's rich vocals and emotive phrasing.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Come Rain Or Come Shine — This track exemplifies McRae's dynamic vocal range and emotional intensity, transforming a familiar standard into a deeply personal experience.
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If This Isn't Love / Look To The Rainbow / That Great Come And Get It Day — The medley showcases McRae's skillful transitions between songs, highlighting her unique ability to weave narratives through different musical themes.
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Getting To Know You / Hello Young Lovers / Something Wonderful — In this medley, McRae elegantly connects three distinct songs, demonstrating her adeptness at conveying warmth and intimacy through her vocal interpretations.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

short energetic bursts of joy
theatrical flair in every track
vibrant vocal performances throughout
playful sing-along moments
for lighthearted gatherings

Maybe skip if you

prefer lengthy immersive experiences
seek deep introspective narratives

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1963, Something Wonderful was Carmen McRae's sixth studio album and marked her continued evolution as a prominent jazz vocalist. Following her 1961 album, Carmen Sings Monk, this record further solidified her reputation for interpreting popular standards with an innovative approach to phrasing and emotional depth.
Stylistic neighbors: Billie Holiday· Sarah Vaughan· Ella Fitzgerald