Album Information Section

Album Title: Verve Jazz Masters 19

Artist: Dinah Washington

Original Release Date: April 19, 1994

Label: Verve

Genres: Jazz, Vocal Jazz, Rhythm and Blues

Track Listing:

• 1. A Slick Chick on the Mellow Side (2:43)
• 2. What a Diff’rence a Day Made (2:31)
• 3. Please Send Me Someone to Love (3:08)
• 4. This Can’t Be Love (6:52)
• 5. New Blowtop Blues (2:39)
• 6. Cold, Cold Heart (3:23)
• 7. This Bitter Earth (2:30)
• 8. A Foggy Day (8:03)
• 9. Darn That Dream (5:19)
• 10. You Don’t Know What Love Is (4:06)
• 11. Pennies From Heaven (2:19)
• 12. Long John Blues (3:14)
• 13. Our Love Is Here to Stay (3:11)
• 14. Squeeze Me (2:14)
• 15. Baby, You’ve Got What It Takes (2:48)
• 16. Unforgettable (2:42)

Recording Information

The album “Verve Jazz Masters 19” was recorded at the renowned Van Gelder Studio, located in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey. This legendary studio, established by engineer Rudy Van Gelder, has been the site of countless iconic jazz recordings. The sessions for this compilation took place in the early 1950s, a period when Dinah Washington was solidifying her reputation in the jazz genre.

The album was produced by the esteemed Quincy Jones, who was instrumental in shaping Washington’s sound during this period. The engineering was managed by Van Gelder himself, known for his unique recording techniques that captured the richness and warmth of jazz vocals and instrumentation. Notably, the album employs a mix of traditional jazz arrangements with orchestral elements, showcasing Washington’s ability to convey deep emotion through her voice.

An interesting production note is that this compilation album brings together tracks from various sessions, highlighting Washington’s versatility and the breadth of her artistic expression. This approach not only showcases her vocal prowess but also her ability to transition seamlessly across different musical styles.

Band Context

At the time of the album’s release, Dinah Washington was one of the most celebrated vocalists in jazz and rhythm and blues. Known as the “Queen of the Blues,” she had already established a significant career since her breakout in the late 1940s. Washington’s emotional delivery and powerful voice earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase, making her one of the most influential figures in music.

During the early 1990s, Washington’s music saw a resurgence in popularity, partly due to compilations like “Verve Jazz Masters 19.” This collection serves as a retrospective of her career, featuring tracks that exemplify her range from jazz standards to blues-infused ballads. It is important to note that Washington faced numerous challenges throughout her career, including struggles with her personal life and the music industry, but her artistry remained unwavering.

The lineup for the recordings included a variety of talented musicians, many of whom were prominent figures in the jazz scene. Washington often collaborated with renowned arrangers and instrumentalists, which contributed to the richness of her sound.

Track Commentary

The album opens with the upbeat “A Slick Chick on the Mellow Side,” a track that sets the tone for Washington’s playful yet soulful style. Following this is the timeless classic “What a Diff’rence a Day Made,” which showcases her ability to convey vulnerability and strength in her vocal performance. This particular track has become one of her signature songs and remains a staple in jazz repertoires.

Other standout tracks include “This Bitter Earth,” which delivers a poignant reflection on love and loss, and “You Don’t Know What Love Is,” where Washington’s emotional depth is palpable. The arrangement of “A Foggy Day” allows her voice to soar, while “Baby, You’ve Got What It Takes” features a playful duet with Brook Benton, highlighting her versatility and charm.

Throughout the album, listeners can appreciate the seamless blend of jazz and blues influences, underscoring Washington’s role in bridging genres. The critical reception of “Verve Jazz Masters 19” has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising it as a definitive collection of her work that captures the essence of her talent. The album not only serves as an introduction for new listeners but also as a cherished compilation for longtime fans.

In conclusion, “Verve Jazz Masters 19” stands as a testament to Dinah Washington’s enduring legacy in the world of music, encapsulating her powerful contributions to jazz and beyond.