Album Information Section
Album Title: Ella Fitzgerald: The Rodgers and Hart Songbook, Volume 2
Artist: Ella Fitzgerald
Original Release Date: 1956
Label: Verve
Genres: Jazz, Vocal Jazz
Track Listing:
- 1. Give It Back to the Indians (3:17)
- 2. Ten Cents a Dance (4:12)
- 3. There’s a Small Hotel (2:54)
- 4. I Didn’t Know What Time It Was (3:53)
- 5. I Could Write a Book (3:44)
- 6. My Funny Valentine (3:58)
- 7. Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered (7:07)
- 8. My Romance (3:48)
- 9. Wait Till You See Her (1:36)
- 10. Lover (3:23)
- 11. Isn’t It Romantic (3:06)
- 12. Blue Moon (3:17)
- 13. Mountain Greenery (2:20)
- 14. Here in My Arms (1:58)
- 15. Everything I’ve Got (3:27)
- 16. Thou Swell (2:09)
- 17. My Heart Stood Still (3:08)
Recording Information
The album “Ella Fitzgerald: The Rodgers and Hart Songbook, Volume 2” was recorded at the legendary Capitol Studios in Hollywood, California, a hub for many iconic recordings in the mid-20th century. The recording sessions took place primarily in 1956, during a period of prolific artistic output for Fitzgerald, who was deeply engaged in the interpretation of American popular song.
The album was produced by the renowned Norman Granz, who was instrumental in Fitzgerald’s career, particularly through his work with the Verve label. The engineering for the recording was handled by the esteemed Val Valentin, who utilized innovative techniques for the time, capturing Fitzgerald’s voice in a way that highlighted her unique phrasing and emotional depth.
Notably, Fitzgerald’s vocal prowess was complemented by a small ensemble of jazz musicians, and the production emphasized live recordings, lending an authentic and spontaneous feel to the album. The recording sessions were marked by a creative synergy between Fitzgerald and her musicians, who were encouraged to interpret the material freely, resulting in a vibrant listening experience.
Band Context
At the time of this album’s release, Ella Fitzgerald was at the height of her career, widely regarded as one of the greatest jazz vocalists of all time. Her work with the Rodgers and Hart Songbook series was a significant endeavor, as it showcased her ability to interpret the American Songbook with elegance and emotional resonance. Following the success of Volume 1, Volume 2 continued to solidify her reputation as an interpreter of the works of legendary composers.
Fitzgerald’s lineup for this recording included a stellar group of musicians who were prominent in the jazz scene, contributing to the rich textures and arrangements featured on the album. This period was marked by Fitzgerald’s increasing popularity and her growing influence in the jazz genre, as she began to reach wider audiences through television appearances and performances in prestigious venues.
In the years leading up to this album, Fitzgerald had already achieved significant recognition, with numerous awards and accolades, including several Grammy Awards. This success allowed her to take creative risks and explore a variety of musical styles, culminating in the rich tapestry that is “The Rodgers and Hart Songbook, Volume 2.”
Track Commentary
The album features a total of 17 tracks, each a testament to the songwriting genius of Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart. The opening track, “Give It Back to the Indians,” sets the tone with its playful yet poignant lyrical content, showcasing Fitzgerald’s ability to convey narrative through her vocal delivery.
Standout tracks such as “My Funny Valentine” and “Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered” highlight Fitzgerald’s mastery of emotional expression, with the former often hailed as one of her signature pieces. The lush arrangements and sensitive interpretations allow her voice to shine, with each phrase imbued with a deep sense of longing and introspection.
The album also includes several lesser-known gems, such as “Mountain Greenery” and “Thou Swell,” which exemplify Fitzgerald’s ability to bring new life to classic material. Critics have praised her innovative phrasing and the subtle nuances she brings to her performances, making even the most familiar songs feel fresh and new.
Overall, “Ella Fitzgerald: The Rodgers and Hart Songbook, Volume 2” received critical acclaim upon its release and continues to be regarded as a landmark in jazz vocal recordings. It not only solidified Fitzgerald’s legacy as a supreme interpreter of American song but also contributed to the enduring popularity of Rodgers and Hart’s compositions, ensuring their place in the pantheon of great American music.
