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 35 releases in their discography, including 34 albums.

Photo: Allan warren · CC BY-SA 3.0

Sammy Davis Jr.

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.

See the full guide

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.

34 studio albums· 35 total releases· 5 decades· United States

Full discography

Sammy Davis Jr.'s albums in order, from earliest releases to latest.

35 releases • 34 albums • 1955–2006

Discography may be incomplete (34 of ~44 albums indexed) • 24 missing albums detected

Type:

Studio albums (33)

Grouped by decade — 5 eras.

1980s ()

Closest of Friends

1982

1970s ()

Sammy Davis Jr. Now

1972

1960s ()

I've Gotta Be Me album by Sammy Davis Jr.

1950s ()

Sammy Davis, Jr. at Town Hall album by Sammy Davis Jr.

Undated ()

What Kind of Fool Am I and Other Show-Stoppers album by Sammy Davis Jr.

Compilations ()

The Definitive Collection

2006

Singles ()

The Candy Man

1972

No releases match the current filters.

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If you liked Sammy Davis Jr., start with Nat King Cole

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Reference

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Sammy Davis Jr.

About Sammy Davis Jr.

Full discography

Studio albums (33)

1980s ()

Closest of Friends

1970s ()

Sammy Davis Jr. Now

1960s ()

I've Gotta Be Me

Lonely Is the Name

Sammy Davis, Jr. Sings the Complete 'Dr. Dolittle'

The Sammy Davis Jr. Show

Sammy Davis, Jr. Sings and Laurindo Almeida Plays

When the Feeling Hits You!

Our Shining Hour

Sammy's Back on Broadway

The Nat King Cole Songbook

The Shelter of Your Arms

Sammy Davis, Jr. Sings Mel Tormé's "California Suite"

If I Ruled the World

Sammy Davis, Jr. Sings the Big Ones for Young Lovers

Sammy Davis, Jr. Salutes the Stars of the London Palladium

Sammy Davis, Jr. Belts the Best of Broadway

The Sammy Davis, Jr. All-Star Spectacular

As Long as She Needs Me

The Wham of Sam!

I Gotta Right to Swing

1950s ()

Sammy Davis, Jr. at Town Hall

Mood to Be Wooed

All The Way... and Then Some!

It's All Over but the Swingin'

Sammy Swings

Here's Looking at You

Just for Lovers

Starring Sammy Davis

Undated ()

What Kind of Fool Am I and Other Show-Stoppers

Sammy Davis, Jr. at the Cocoanut Grove

The Sounds of '66

That's All!

Compilations ()

The Definitive Collection

Singles ()

The Candy Man