What is the best Sammy Davis Jr. album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Sammy Davis, Jr. at the Cocoanut Grove". It's the most representative of what makes Sammy Davis Jr. worth hearing.

How many albums does Sammy Davis Jr. have?

Sammy Davis Jr. has 62 releases in their discography, including 55 albums and 1 EP.

Photo: Allan warren · CC BY-SA 3.0

Sammy Davis Jr.

Q: What are the best Sammy Davis Jr. albums?

The essential Sammy Davis Jr. albums include "Sammy Davis, Jr. at the Cocoanut Grove", "That's All!", "What Kind of Fool Am I and Other Show-Stoppers", "It's All Over but the Swingin'" (1957) and "Sammy Swings" (1957).

Q: Who is Sammy Davis Jr. for?

If you're into blues and jazz, Sammy Davis Jr. is worth your time. Rich orchestration pairs with rhythmic intensity, as punchy brass lines weave through soulful melodies, inviting movement and engagement.

Rich orchestration pairs with rhythmic intensity, as punchy brass lines weave through soulful melodies, inviting movement and engagement.

blues · jazz · swing · traditional pop

United States

Read about Sammy Davis Jr. on Bookshop

Start here

The album

Sammy Davis, Jr. at the Cocoanut Grove

Showcases his vibrant stage presence and musical range with a mix of big band and jazz elements, making it accessible for new listeners.

The song

“The Candy Man”

A catchy, engaging tune that highlights his vocal style and charm, serving as an excellent introduction to his music.

Where to go

Start here

Sammy Davis, Jr. at the Cocoanut Grove

A catchy, engaging tune that highlights his vocal style and charm, serving as an excellent introduction to his music.

Play this

Defining move

That's All!

A definitive showcase of his vocal talent.

Play this

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"When the Feeling Hits You" — from When the Feeling Hits You! (1965)

accessible entry with immediate hook
2

"The Lady Is a Tramp" — from I Gotta Right to Swing (1960)

establishes the sonic palette early
3

"A Lot of Livin’ to Do" — from The Wham of Sam! (1961)

accessible entry with immediate hook
4

"The Candy Man" — from Sammy Davis Jr. Now (1972)

accessible entry with immediate hook
5

"What Is There to Say" — from Mood to Be Wooed (1958)

establishes the sonic palette early
6

"If I Ruled the World" — from If I Ruled the World (1964)

establishes the sonic palette early

About Sammy Davis Jr.

Sammy Davis Jr.

stands as a pivotal figure in American music and entertainment, transcending the boundaries of race and genre during a time of social upheaval.

stands as a pivotal figure in American music and entertainment, transcending the boundaries of race and genre during a time of social upheaval. His ability to seamlessly blend the exuberance of big band sounds with the raw emotive power of blues not only captivated audiences but also challenged cultural norms, paving the way for future artists to embrace a more diverse artistic identity. Davis's performances became cultural touchstones that illustrated both the struggles and triumphs of African American artists in the mid-20th century. Approaching music with an unparalleled versatility, Davis drew from various influences, crafting a sound that was as dynamic as it was inclusive. His mastery of performance—balancing singing, dancing, and acting—created an immersive experience for his listeners. This multi-faceted approach allowed him to connect deeply with audiences, transforming each show into an exploration of joy and pain that resonated beyond mere entertainment. Lyrically, Davis often navigated themes of love, resilience, and identity, offering a window into his own life experiences while also addressing broader societal issues. His storytelling is imbued with sincerity, using humor and wit to convey deeper truths without losing emotional depth. This duality creates an intimate atmosphere where listeners feel both uplifted and understood.

55 studio albums· 62 total releases· 5 decades· United States