The Essential Dinah Washington: The Great Songs

Dive into the rich, velvety vocals of Dinah Washington with "The Essential Dinah Washington: The Great Songs," a captivating compilation that spans her illustrious career. Released on November 3, 1992, this album is a testament to Washington's versatility and mastery over various genres, including vocal jazz, jazz, and jazz blues. With a running time of just under an hour, this collection offers a concise yet comprehensive journey through her discography.

The album kicks off with the playful "I Get A Kick Out Of You" and includes live performances from iconic venues like the Newport Jazz Festival and Los Angeles, providing a live energy that complements her studio work. Standout tracks like "Back Water Blues" showcase her blues roots, while "What A Diff'rence A Day Made" and "I've Got You Under My Skin" highlight her ability to deliver sophisticated, orchestrated jazz. The set also features lesser-known gems like "Fat Daddy" and "Blue Gardenia," offering a deeper look into her repertoire.

Dinah Washington's powerful voice and dynamic range are on full display, making "The Essential Dinah Washington: The Great Songs" an essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to her music, this album serves as a perfect introduction to the incredible talent and enduring legacy of Dinah Washington.

Dinah Washington, born Ruth Lee Jones, was a powerhouse vocalist and pianist who left an indelible mark on American music. Known as the "Queen of the Blues," she was one of the most popular black female recording artists of the 1950s, with a career that spanned jazz, blues, R&B, and traditional pop. Washington's exceptional voice control and unique gospel-inflected delivery made her a standout performer, and her recordings consistently topped the charts. She collaborated with legendary musicians like Quincy Jones and Brook Benton, and her interpretations of songs like "What a Difference a Day Makes" and "Mad About the Boy" are timeless classics. Despite her tragic death at the age of 39, Dinah Washington's influence on female rock and roll artists and her legacy as a versatile and influential vocalist continue to inspire new generations of musicians.