"Tribute to Billie Holiday" is a captivating 1979 studio album by the renowned jazz vocalist Rosemary Clooney, released under the Concord Jazz label. This album is a heartfelt homage to the legendary Billie Holiday, featuring a collection of ten soulful tracks that showcase Clooney's exceptional vocal prowess and deep respect for Holiday's timeless repertoire.
Originally titled "Here's To My Lady," this album was initially available on cassette before being reissued with its current title. The tracklist includes beloved standards such as "I Cover The Waterfront," "Good Morning, Heartache," and "God Bless The Child," each rendered with Clooney's signature warmth and elegance. The album also features standout performances on tenor saxophone by Scott Hamilton, coronet by Warren Vache, and piano by Nat Pierce, adding rich instrumental depth to Clooney's velvety vocals.
With a runtime of just over 40 minutes, "Tribute to Billie Holiday" is a concise yet powerful journey through the jazz standards that defined an era. The album's big band arrangements and Clooney's nuanced interpretations make it a standout in the vocal jazz genre, offering both longtime fans and newcomers a chance to appreciate the enduring legacy of Billie Holiday through the lens of one of jazz's most beloved voices.