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GET TORCHED.
Torch songs tell about love you want, love you have, love you lost, love that mistreated you. These are some of my favorites.
Among the best ever.
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Dakota Staton, "Crazy He Calls Me"
A vintage version that blows me away. Lovely, vibey, perfect. Dakota hit it big with an album called The Late, Late Show in 1957, and then worked with the fantastic pianist, George Shearing.
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Billie Eidson, "Crazy He Calls Me."
Yes, this is my version. I include it because the ensemble behind me brings a sensitive reading to this wonderful bandstand classic. Featuring jazz legend Tom Grant on piano, Phil Baker of Pink Martini on bass, and Portland’s own Jazz Master, Ron Steen on drums. Enjoy!
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Nancy Wilson, "Don't Talk, Just Sing (Live at the Hotel Ambassador's Cocoanut Grove)
Dream job contract.
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Miles Davis, "Round About Midnight."
This tune, usually titled “Round Midnight”, is by Thelonius Monk, an edgy, innovative pianist and a composer of few tunes, almost all of which are beloved by jazz musicians. This particular tune has had huge appeal as well to non-musicians, not the least because of this haunting, sexy version by the great Miles Davis.
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Rita Hayworth Dances to Rosemary Clooney
A sexy, savvy, young Rosemary Clooney singing “Sway” accompanied by brilliant film excerpts of equally sexy Rita Hayworth tempting you with her delightful dance.
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Sophia Loren
Mambo Italiano, one of my favorite songs to perform for you. In a YouTube clip from the classic Italian film “Pane amore e…” (1955, later released as “Scandal in Sorrento”). See Sophia Loren and enjoy her stunning red dress shoulder shimmy in all its glory!
Stay tuned here as I add some of my favorite torch songs.
What are your favorite torch songs or recordings?
Got some great music to share with me?
Well, what are you waiting for?
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