The Great American Songbook (Limited Edition CD/DVD Collection)

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Rod Stewart's mellowing years have neatly coincided with a commitment to smart ballad choices and a generally warmer musical persona. Rod the Mod liberated at last? Like many a pop singer, Stewart returns here to what's become generally known as the Great American Songbook, that evergreen body of mid-20th century songcraft that continues to inspire singers across oceans and generations. It's said that Stewart has been vocalizing many of these songs in private for years, and given the warm, human scale of most of the performances here, it's not hard to believe. Producer Phil Ramone's spare, unobtrusive arrangements inspire the singer to some of his most subtle and rewarding performances in years. Stewart's slightly weary vocal tack handsomely suggests the smoke, booze, and aching heart that lie at the best of these songs. Such back-to-the-future efforts can often sound like a last career gasp; here, they seem a refreshing breath of fresh air. --Jerry McCulley [Note: This limited edition gift package contains the first two volumes of Rod Stewart’s Great American Songbook series-- It Had To Be You and As Time Goes By plus Rod's live performances from the DVD It Had To Be You.]

Larry King, CNN
"Rod Stewart’s new album is one of the best pop albums ever recorded."

Album Description
This is a special, limited edition, gift package featuring:

It Had To Be You... The Great American Songbook CD It Had To Be You... The Great American Songbook DVD As Time Goes By...The Great American Songbook: Volume II CD

The Great American Songbook (Limited Edition CD/DVD Collection)

Tracks:

You Go To My Head (feat Dave Koz)
They Can't Take That Away From Me (feat Arturo Sandoval)
The Way You Look Tonight
It Had to Be You (feat Michael Brecker)
That Old Feeling (feat Arturo Sandoval)
These Foolish Things (feat Dave Koz)
The Very Thought of You
Moonglow (feat Arturo Sandoval)
I'll Be Seeing You
Everytime We Say Goodbye (feat Dave Koz)
The Nearness of You
For All We Know
We'll Be Together Again
That's All

Amazon.com

Rod Stewart's mellowing years have neatly coincided with a commitment to smart ballad choices and a generally warmer musical persona. Rod the Mod liberated at last? Like many a pop singer, Stewart returns here to what's become generally known as the Great American Songbook, that evergreen body of mid-20th century songcraft that continues to inspire singers across oceans and generations. It's said that Stewart has been vocalizing many of these songs in private for years, and given the warm, human scale of most of the performances here, it's not hard to believe. Producer Phil Ramone's spare, unobtrusive arrangements inspire the singer to some of his most subtle and rewarding performances in years. Stewart's slightly weary vocal tack handsomely suggests the smoke, booze, and aching heart that lie at the best of these songs. Such back-to-the-future efforts can often sound like a last career gasp; here, they seem a refreshing breath of fresh air. --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

Rod Stewart.......2007-06-28

It Had to Be You... The Great American Songbook
~ Rod Stewart
Given as gift to my 73 yr old aunt.
She requested it!

Another Great CD.......2007-06-02

Once again, Rod Stewart "Great American Song Book" Series is great. We now have all of them and enjoy them all. He has always been a talent and these series of CD's are just as wonderful as all of Stewart's music. Highly recommend.

Save Your Money!.......2007-05-15

I already had his "As Time Goes By" album and listen to it constantly so I figured it would be a natural to buy this one. Couldn't wait for it to be delivered. Played it once and it was Awful all the way around. His voice, the accompanyment, the sound! It's sitting in front of me as I type this and I have no desire to ever play it again, that's how bad it is. On the other hand, his "As Time Goes By" disk is fabulous! But if I had bought "It Had to Be You" first it would have ended there. Unfortutely, I can't get my money back. Don't make the same mistake unless you adore this guy and will put up with anything he recorded no matter how bad it is.

a real disappointment.......2007-05-15

I bought this CD with great expectations,however after hearing it several times I have to say that Rod Stewart failed.His singing is unable to convey the soft swing mood which is fundamental to this beautiful songs.His voice sounds dull and does not transmit any emotion.I think Mr Stewart should return to what he really does masterfully,pop/rock

Rod Stewart, Crooner.......2007-05-07

Wonderful! If you ever danced to or just listened to these songs way back then, you will love the new Rod Stewart singing about romance.

Stardust... The Great American Songbook, Vol. III

Average customer rating:

So nice
Rod Stewart Revisited
Nice listening tunes
igottaview
If works once - do it over and over and over....

Stardust... The Great American Songbook, Vol. III
Rod Stewart
Manufacturer: J-Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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As Time Goes By...The Great American Songbook: Volume II
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Bette Midler Sings The Rosemary Clooney Songbook

ASIN: B0002X94Y8
Release Date: 2004-10-19

Tracks:

Embraceable You
For Sentimental Reasons (feat Dave Koz)
Blue Moon (feat Eric Clapton)
What A Wonderful World (feat Stevie Wonder)
Stardust
Manhattan (duet with Bette Midler)
S'Wonderful (feat Dave Grusin)
Isn't It Romantic (feat Dave Koz)
I Can't Get Started
But Not For Me
Kiss To Build A Dream On (feat Arturo Sandoval)
Baby, It's Cold Outside (duet with Dolly Parton)
Night And Day
A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square

Amazon.com

It's a little hard to take Rod Stewart seriously when, on the first track of this third installment in his Great American Songbook series, he sings ruefully about his love life being "lean" ("Embraceable You"). But otherwise, Stardust...Volume III is as note-for-note solid as its predecessors--a cozy-up-to-the-fire treat that's also a pleasant reminder of these songs' staying power. "S'Wonderful" settles on the ears winningly, and Stewart's scratchathon voice scalpels the cobwebs off of "Isn't It Romantic" in a way that compels the average listener to reconsider thinking it dopey. In addition, the parade of high-wattage pals recruited to pitch in continues here, resulting in a couple of must-hear combinations. Eric Clapton delivers a rather un-Clapton-like guitar solo on "Blue Moon" and Stevie Wonder blows harp like he means it on "What a Wonderful World," but it is the duets--"Baby It's Cold Outside" with the unsinkable Dolly Parton and "Manhattan" with the indomitable Bette Midler--that the dazzle most. --Tammy La Gorce

Customer Reviews:

So nice .......2007-07-16

I have played this cd over and over and enjoy it so much. It is wonderful for those of us who know those songs and just enjoy beautiful music. Just nice to hear lovely music once again.

Rod Stewart Revisited.......2007-05-07

A nostalgic trip to the romantic past. Who would ever think Rod Stewart of "Hot Legs" fame could do such justice to these "Oldies but Goodies"?

Nice listening tunes.......2007-04-01

I received a defective CD and Amazon promptly sent me a new one ... great customer service.

igottaview.......2007-03-08

There is only 1 ROD STEWART and this album WILL NOT DISAPPOINT his fans! AWESOME! TIMELESS!

If works once - do it over and over and over...........2007-03-05

I really like this music! Truly! And I'm only 25... It scares me that the ones who are gonna open "my generation" to this music are Rod Stewart & Westlife!
The choices of songs are good and the orchastration on the firts 2 are more the okey. But his torn old tired voice over these beautiful musical settings just doesn't do them justice. And why bring in Dolly Parton & Cher? They're both fantastic singers but jazzsingers they're NOT!
Why buy this when there's an limitless world of original jazz singers/musicians to choose from? It's just beyond me!
If you still want someone contemporaray - stick to Natalie Cole, Madeleyne Peyroux or my favourite: Stacey Kent (check her out - you WONT regret it!!!)
Back to Rod: The last effort (number 4 in the series) was so hastily put together the tracklist isn't even correct. I could just see him: "Alright people! I have an hour to record this, so just gimme the mic so I can get back to chasing women! How many millions is this cd gonna make me?! Really!? Great! We'll make another next month! Just throw something together - they'll buy anything!"
No - stick to the originals people!

As Time Goes By...The Great American Songbook: Volume II

Average customer rating:

igottaview
ANOTHER GREAT ONE!!
Incredible
Smooth and Easy Listening
Not Happy

As Time Goes By...The Great American Songbook: Volume II
Rod Stewart
Manufacturer: J-Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Still the Same...Great Rock Classics Of Our Time

ASIN: B0000C9ZEX
Release Date: 2003-10-21

Tracks:

Time After Time
Im In The Mood For Love
Dont Get Around Much Anymore
Bewitched, Bothered & Bewildered (Duet with Cher)
'Till There Was You
Until The Real Thing Comes Along
Where Or When
Smile
My Heart Stood Still
Someone To Watch Over Me
As Time Goes By (Duet with Queen Latifah)
I Only Have Eyes For You
Crazy She Calls Me
Our Love Is Here To Stay

Amazon.com

At least Rod Stewart is consistent. Long accused by critics of selling his considerable interpretative talents short and playing it safe for the trappings of fame, Stewart revisits the font of his latest career revival here. But while 2002's It Had To Be You at least turned on the novelty of hearing raspy Rod the Mod tackle a slate of American pop standards with a boozy, world-weary tone that sometimes reinforced the originals' intent with trans-generational flair, the British rock icon unfortunately reverted to form a year later on this 14-track sequel. Set against the laconic, cocktail-friendly productions of vets Richard Perry and Phil Ramone, Stewart's performances seem strangely detached throughout. Even when offered the chance at some real human interaction on a pair of ill-conceived duets with Cher (who at least attempts to bring some dramatic flair to "Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered") and Queen Latifah (whose recent turn in Chicago informs the title track), Stewart seems almost blissfully unaware of their presence. These are songs that virtually demand to be acted out, not phoned in. Brilliant vocal performances often reinforce the notion of "the singer, not the song;" here that old adage sounds more like a suggestion of where to place the blame for this album's disappointments. --Jerry McCulley

Album Description

Produced again by luminaries Richard Perry, Phil Ramone and Clive Davis, Volume II consists of 14 all-timers such as "I'm In The Mood For Love," "Smile," "As Time Goes By," "I Only Have Eyes For You," "Someone To Watch Over Me," "Til' There Was You," and a delicious duet with Cher on "Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered," with the almost-never-heard original sexy lyrics.

Customer Reviews:

igottaview.......2007-03-08

There is only 1 ROD STEWART and this album WILL NOT DISAPPOINT his fans! AWESOME! TIMELESS!

ANOTHER GREAT ONE!!.......2007-01-23

AGAIN, HERE IS THE GREAT SOUND OF ROD STEWART! AND HIS DUETS ARE GREAT ALSO. THAT IS HALF THE FUN, LISTENING TO THE SPLENDID BLENDING OF VOICES!! I HAVE ALL FOUR OF HIS COLLECTION AND CAN'T WAIT UNTIL #5 ARRIVES IN THE STORES!!!

Incredible.......2007-01-12

I got this CD along with "Thanks for the Memories" by Rod Stewart for my dad and he absolutely loves them. Next time I see him, he said he would save a dance or two for me. Great music!

Smooth and Easy Listening.......2007-01-11

Can't go wrong with this CD and it will keep your feet tapping.

Not Happy.......2007-01-11

I ordered this item thru Amazon but with another company. I never received the album and could not get them to respond to my e-mails.

I finally called Amazon and they refunded my money. Amazon is a stand up company; just don't get envolved with and of there sub companys.

I've since ordered many things from Amazon and usually can't believe how fast they get things to me.

Thanks For The Memory...The Great American Songbook IV

Average customer rating:

Spare the Rod
Rod Stewart: Songbook IV
raves for rod
Thanks For The Memory...The Great American Songbook IV
Vibrating, exciting and mesmerizing recordings!

Thanks For The Memory...The Great American Songbook IV
Rod Stewart
Manufacturer: J-Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Sings the Peggy Lee Songbook

ASIN: B000B7HZXM
Release Date: 2005-10-18

Tracks:

I've Got a Crush on You - featuring Diana Ross
I Wish You Love - featuring Chris Botti
You Send Me - featuring Chaka Khan
Long Ago and Far Away
Makin' Whoopee- featuring Elton John
My One and Only Love
Taking a Chance on Love
My Funny Valentine
I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm
Nevertheless - featuring Dave Koz
Blue Skies
Let's Fall in Love - featuring George Benson
Thanks for the Memory

Amazon.com

Accuse Rod Stewart of what you like--through the years he's been called a philanderer, a has-been, a pageant-ish progenitor of puff rock--but as he has consistently proved with his Great American Songbook series, the concept of dignity is not lost on him. There is a time, after all, for leaping across stages in leopard-print spandex while shamelessly parading an unparalleled gift for scratchy-voiced seduction, and he is past it. Past his prime is another thing. On this fourth installation of the Clive Davis-produced series, Stewart again makes excellent use of his rolodex: Diana Ross, whose affection for this material comes through as convincingly as her spike-haired partner's, cuddles up for opener "I've Got a Crush On You," Chaka Khan packs her bags but not her mighty vocals for "You Send Me," and Sir Elton shelves the recent balladeer's instincts for a rip-roaring run through "Makin' Whoopee." A handful of marquee instrumentalists also returned Rod's calls-- Dave Koz blows sax on "Nevertheless," and trumpeters Chris Botti and Roy Hargrove turn up the heat on "I Wish You Love" and "My One and Only Love" respectively. As on earlier discs, though, it's when Rod rules the spotlight alone that he can be most compelling: Cue up "My Funny Valentine" in the right frame of mind and you may never need to hear it sung by another. Retiring the satin shirts in favor of this material was the smartest move Stewart ever made. --Tammy La Gorce

More from the Great American Songbook

It Had To Be You
As Time Goes By
Stardust

Bette Midler Sings the Rosemary Clooney Songbook
Bette Midler Sings the Peggy Lee Songbook
The Great American Songbook

Customer Reviews:

Spare the Rod.......2007-07-09

Great listening. Not the smoothest voice, but a real stylist. And I want his HAIR

Rod Stewart: Songbook IV.......2007-07-04

We have purchased all four of the songbook CD's, and enjoy all equally. This is a nice and easy listen, for relaxing times. Stewart seems to feel the moods of the songs, and performs them with style. My wife plays them at her restaurant and gets many good compliments also.

raves for rod.......2007-06-27

as always rod is fabulous. anything he does he does beautifully.it is a great album for those of us who appreciate theseb classics.

Thanks For The Memory...The Great American Songbook IV.......2007-05-15

Wonderful album of Rod Stewart! Fast shipping and great customer service.

Vibrating, exciting and mesmerizing recordings!.......2007-04-09

Rod Stewart, apart to be a living legend on stages through over three decades and a half, , is a singer who has known to reinvent himself over and over. This successful idea, so desired for many others singers have found in his original voice, the perfect instrument to bring us back to all these vanished memories,
Unforgettable melodies that found the widest resonance in the decade of the forties, fifties and sixties.

Supported by a fabulous big leaguer musical team, Stewart has know to sharp every song he sung, with adequate emotion, accuracy and commitment. The result of this initial experiment has been materialized until this date in four extraordinary registers.

In what concerns this special album the result has been particularly gratifying. The achieved maturity has been reached until the last consequences. He is a crooner of a huge charisma and extraordinary melodic vein, reason which this CD has figured so many weeks in enviable ranking sellers as one the most fortunate since its release the last year.

Under any circumstance you should miss this fabulous compilation, that somehow complements decades that will never get back but that certainly feed and flamed the romantic imagination and were motives of special and pleasant attention for many couples around the world that nowadays are grandfathers or even great grand fathers.

Average customer rating:

What I expected
One G.A.S.masterpiece after another..How does he do it ??
Never been a fan....Until Now!!!
An Insult
How could you not love these songs?

The Great American Songbook
Rod Stewart
Manufacturer: J-Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000BNI99K
Release Date: 2005-11-15

Tracks:

You Go To My Head (feat Dave Koz)
They Can't Take That Away From Me (feat Arturo Sandoval)
The Way You Look Tonight
It Had to Be You (feat Michael Brecker)
That Old Feeling (feat Arturo Sandoval)
These Foolish Things (feat Dave Koz)
The Very Thought of You
Moonglow (feat Arturo Sandoval)
I'll Be Seeing You
Everytime We Say Goodbye (feat Dave Koz)
The Nearness of You
For All We Know
We'll Be Together Again
That's All

Tracks:

Time After Time
Im In The Mood For Love
Dont Get Around Much Anymore
Bewitched, Bothered & Bewildered (Duet with Cher)
'Till There Was You
Until The Real Thing Comes Along
Where Or When
Smile
My Heart Stood Still
Someone To Watch Over Me
As Time Goes By (Duet with Queen Latifah)
I Only Have Eyes For You
Crazy She Calls Me
Our Love Is Here To Stay

Tracks:

Embraceable You
For Sentimental Reasons (feat Dave Koz)
Blue Moon (feat Eric Clapton)
What A Wonderful World (feat Stevie Wonder)
Stardust
Manhattan (duet with Bette Midler)
S'Wonderful (feat Dave Grusin)
Isn't It Romantic (feat Dave Koz)
I Can't Get Started
But Not For Me
Kiss To Build A Dream On (feat Arturo Sandoval)
Baby, It's Cold Outside (duet with Dolly Parton)
Night And Day
A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square

Tracks:

I've Got a Crush on You - Diana Ross
I Wish You Love
You Send Me
Long Ago and Far Away
Makin' Whoopee
My One and Only Love - Chaka Khan
Taking a Chance on Love
My Funny Valentine
I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm - Elton John
Nevertheless
Blue Skies
Let's Fall in Love
Thanks for the Memory

Amazon.com

Often as people age, they grow more interested in ancestry. Rod Stewart's musical family tree certainly includes the great crooners of the past--those who took the pop songs included in his Great American Songbook series and turned them into standards. It's fitting, that he should find a late middle-age career revival by paying homage to the music that paved the way for rock clubs, discothèques, and screaming groupies the world over. Stewart's series has only grown stronger since it debuted with It Had to Be You. Most vocalists could spend sleepless nights trying to figure out how to make "Until the Real Thing Comes Along" their own. It's no problem for Rod. His jetsetter barring coupled with that unmistakable, husky voice is more than enough for him to leave his own stamp on the songs. And with the addition of guest stars from Cher to Chaka Kahn, well, there's a little something for everyone… especially those who remember when "Do Ya Think I'm Sexy" was haunting the charts. For fans who sampled and loved a portion of this collection, the box set is a handsome addition to their library. It contains not only the four American Songbook CDs, but a DVD sampler of concert footage. (The set says "Big Band Era." The saxophonist in the mini skirt says it's a Rod Stewart show.) There's also a booklet of glamour shots featuring Rod and one or more leggy blondes, and notes on Stewart's musical career. Rod doesn't quite convey the ease performing these tunes on stage that he does on the CDs, and the bio is far from unbiased, but who can help but love this music? Especially for sentimental reasons. --Leah Weathersby

Album Description

All four volumes of Rod Stewart's phenomenally successful Great American Songbook series together for the first time in a brand-new box set.

Contains: -It Had to Be You... -As Time Goes By... -Stardust... -Thanks For The Memory... -Plus a bonus DVD of four live tracks and one music video -Deluxe 5" x 10" display book. Including a full-color 20-page book containing new liner notes and never-before-seen photos.

Customer Reviews:

What I expected .......2007-01-19

It was shipped in a timely fashion, the condition of the 4 CD set was in very good shape. I was pleased with it overall.

One G.A.S.masterpiece after another..How does he do it ??.......2006-10-16

Finally,this marvelous work is cornered and boxed for your listening and dancing pleasure.Legions of fans have expressed their raving reviews and I'd humbly wish to add mine.The obvious secret of this projects success begins with the actual song selections. Where on earth,did Rod's team unearth these musical gems? For too long, many of these tunes were ignored for weeks on end without the proper vocal appreciation.This set demonstrates Rod's artistic ability to change the musical winds and elevate this material to the precipice,on which it richly deserves to rest.Second,an equally important,are the musical arrangements represented throughout this work.Simply put, Jackie Gleason would blush with envy. Rod and company have guided these charts in a direction other arrangers fear to tread.Last but not least,Rod's unnatural ability to deconstruct these musical treasures acts as the tipping point to their universal appeal. His energy and artistic perspiration are evident throughout this classic series.My only disappointment,rests with the fact that Rod may have concluded his recorded exploration of the Great American Standards.However,it's whispered, among fans, that a G.A.S.box set containing rarities,b/c,d sides, outtakes, alt.takes and demo's may still see the light of day.Hopefully,the legendary and much bootlegged,Makin Whoopee,alt.take#38 will be included. Sadly,as Rod turns his talent towards recording the entire classic RocknRoll canon,other side projects have been abandoned or delayed. The much anticipated,Rod Sings the Work of Stephen Foster, has,I understand, been shelved.However, there's still some hope the rumoured recording of, Rod Humms the Ray Noble Classics Live on the Beach at St Tropez,accompanied by only a gin and lemmon squash, will possibly see a future release date. Until then, remember,a day without Rod's music is a non-rodday.

Never been a fan....Until Now!!!.......2006-05-17

I love Rod's take on these sweet,sentimental,classic songs.Grab a glass of Chablis...dim the lights...turn the phone off...and fall into each others arms....ahhhh...romance :-)

An Insult.......2006-04-24

There was a time that an artist selling a 1.000 records could claim to be a bigger seller than Rod Steward. It should have stayed this way. Instead Rod chose to come back with his interpretation of the American Songbook.

It has been an insult to both the songbook and the legendary artists who've contributed to it over time. It is hard to imagine that those who've been enamored by the likes of Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Chet Baker, and Louis Armstrong or even Tony Bennet could find any beauty in these records.

With the first release I hoped it would stay at that. But Rod's audience caught on. Surprisingly the critics didn't kill him as well. Thinking I missed something before I forced myself to listen to it again. Only to find that the releases are a horror. His deliverance and timing are completely off and the arrangement are unimaginative. Rod Steward doesn't ad anything to the American Songbook, he tears it down. This boxed set is totally uncalled for. Not only because of the weakness in material, also because it just repackages the previous material without adding something to it considerably.

Rod should stick to the beautiful Soulful Rock he did in his heyday and leave well enough alone. I'd advise everyone to stay away from this and stick with the classics.

How could you not love these songs?.......2006-02-05

One of the songs, "I Can't Get Started with You," contains the line, "Tina Turner's had me for tea." Now, there's a visual.

I have an embarrassing memory of canoodling with a date in his orange shag-carpeted apartment while watching Rod sing "Do Ya Think I'm Sexy" on TV. Fortunately, both Rod and I have come a long way since then.

Love these songs so much. Very romantic and Rod's voice is perfect My particular favorites are "Smile," "Wonderful World," "Give Me a Kiss to Build a Dream On," "Stardust" (with Eric Claptaon), "Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered" (with Cher), "I'll Take Manhattan" (with Bette Midler), and "Baby, it's Cold Outside" (with Dolly Parton).

Highly recommended.

Average customer rating:

The Great American Songbook
Nancy Wilson
Manufacturer: Blue Note Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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From Broadway with Love/Tender Loving Care
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R.S.V.P. (Rare Songs, Very Personal)

ASIN: B000AHJ86U
Release Date: 2005-08-30

Tracks:

All Of You
The Things We Did Last Summer
The More I See You
The Nearness Of You
Never Will I Marry
What A Little Moonlight Can Do
Little Girl Blue
Tonight
Sometimes I'm Happy
Secret Love
Sleepin' Bee
Fly Me To The Moon (In Other Words)
On The Street Where You Live
You Don't Know What Love Is
This Time The Dream's On Me
Sophisticated Lady
Dearly Beloved
My Ship
My Shining Hour
I'm Gonna Laugh You Out Of My Life
Back In Your Own Back Yard
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Tracks:

Bewitched
Try A Little Tenderness
At Long Last Love
In A Sentimental Mood
When The Sun Comes Out
I Thought About You
Darn That Dream
The Very Thought Of You
Like Someone In Love
Angel Eyes
My One And Only Love
The Song Is You
Lush Life
It Never Entered My Mind
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Time After Time
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Average customer rating:

Magic
Essential
Search for the vinyl lp version
Thank You, Carmen!
Wow

The Great American Songbook
Carmen McRae
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Carmen McRae Sings Great American Songwriters
Carmen Sings Monk
Bittersweet
Ballad Essentials
Torchy/Blue Moon

ASIN: B000002I3X
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Satin Doll
At Long Last Love
If The Moon Turns Green
Day By Day
What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life
I Only Have Eyes For You
Easy Living/The Days Of Wine And Roses/It's Impossible
Sunday
A Song For You
I Cried For You
Behind The Face
The Ballad Of Thelonious Monk
There's No Such Thing As Love
They Long To Be Close To You
Three Little Words
Mr. Ugly
It's Like Reaching For The Moon
I Thought About You

Amazon.com

Perhaps the title is a bit off the mark: This set, recorded at Donte's in Los Angeles in 1972, isn't some sort of comprehensive catalog of the greatest American songs. After all, it's possible to find more enduring standards than "Close to You" (Bacharach/David) or "A Song for You" (Leon Russell) or "What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life" (Legrand/Bergman/Bergman). And while Duke Ellington, Cole Porter, and Johnny Mercer are represented (by "Satin Doll," "At Long Last Love," and "I Thought About You," respectively), there's no Gershwin or Berlin or Kern. But that's not really the point, is it? The great McRae make's 'em all sound like classic American songs in a recording that's as close as you'll ever get to seeing her in the intimacy of a small club. The laughter, sighs, and applause of the audience, tinkling cocktail glasses and spoken intros (most of which have been cut for the CD release) put you right there with McRae and the four-piece band, including Joe Pass on guitar and Jimmy Rowles on piano. Maybe it should just have been called Great American Singing. --Jim Emerson

Customer Reviews:

Magic.......2007-03-08

This woman used magic to sing. Nothing else can describe the unbelievable way Carmen McRae interprets this music. All of her recordings are a trip down memory lane. This one puts you in a chair next to the stage in the club.

Essential.......2006-06-23

Perfect lounge music. McRae one of the best. Live recording accounts for some audio quality issues but overall excellent for library for a vocalist enthusiast.

Search for the vinyl lp version.......2003-02-27

Listening to this live outing on CD, with most of Carmen's spoken introductions cut out, is a frustrating experience. I had bought the CD a while back, but couldn't really get into it. Then I ran across the old vinyl double album in a used-record store, so I bought it to find out what I had been missing. And let me tell you, Carmen's witty and brash banter makes all the difference in establishing this album as a true listening experience. She cuts up for two and a half minutes alone before launching into "The Ballad of Thelonious Monk." Hearing Carmen speak to the audience does a lot to establish a sense of the room in which she was performing, the jovial mood she was in, and the spirit of that night in Donte's. And you know what, the sound even seems a bit richer on the old vinyl.

Thank You, Carmen!.......2002-11-01

It is a simple and disappointing fact that Carmen McRae spent much of her career in the collective shadow of Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan. However, unlike many vocalists who would (and did) throw in the towel, she carved out and developed a style all her own; while leaving us some wonderful music in the process.
This collection is a perfect example of that. She took these songs and interpreted them in ways that Ms. Vaughan and Ms. Fitzgerald couldn't touch. This collection proves that over most of her career she successfully resisted the temptation to try and sound more like Sarah or Ella. For that, we should be very thankful!

Wow.......2002-08-21

I'm lucky to have a great jazz station in my area (KCSM 91.9), and when they played a few of the tracks from the "At Ratso's" CD, I was intrigued. I found this CD at the local library, strangely enough.

Carmen McRae is an excellent vocalist, and she shines in this live, intimate setting, backed by a great rhythym section. She can really put inflection and attitude, not to mention emotion, into her voice.

The title of this album is rather misleading, and something like "Live at Donte's" would be more appropriate. I'm a bit disappointed that they had to cut the spoken introductions, and I'll keep a lookout for those LPs (even though I have no record player...heh).

Tracks:

You Gotta Try
Ridin' High/I'm Shootin' High
You Make Me Feel So Young
Stardust
I'm Gonna Go Fishin'
Don't Get Around Much Anymore/I Let A Song Go Out Of My Heart
Sophisticated Lady/I Didn't Know About You
Rockin' In Rhythm
It Don't Mean A Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing
A Lovely Way To Spend An Evening
I'll Remember April/I Concentrate On You
Autumn In New York
Just One Of Those Things/Green Dolphin Street
All God's Chillun' Got Rhythm
The Party's Over

Customer Reviews:

Mel at his very best.......2007-01-10

There are so many high points in a Mel Torme' performance, it is difficult to point out just a few. This recording captures Mel Torme' not only at the top of his game vocally, but in his ideal setting-LIVE. It is not the best quality recording on the planet, but the caliber of the musicianship here outweighs those considerations. For a collector-a must. For the casual Mel listener-a must. Just a remarkable performance in every way from one of the most talented performers/musicians that ever lived. A big statement-but in Mel's case, just the truth.

Perfect Pleasure.......2007-01-08

Imaginative and at times unbaerably cool, Mel Torme proves at this concert how great and creative artist he is. Using interesting material (not necessarily the best known songs from the great American songbook...) and a big band capable of following his fancifull and technically very strong and versatile vocal flights, Mel shines in the best light at this album.
A true jazz experience from seasoned singer, still at the very peak of his powers.

Superb Singer, Superb Entertainer!.......2002-10-28

A truly great singer who had a superb vocal range and extra ordinary breath control. Mel could really play to an audience and always (as on this cd) provided a wide range of material which included a variety of moods and tempos. Also he was a pretty good drummer as demonstrated on "Rockin' In Rhythm". I haven't heard anyone who could segue from one song to another as facilely as Mel ("Ridin' High" into "I'm Shootin' High").....or with as much humor ("I'll Remember April/I Concentrate On You"). I've never heard him fail to give credit to the accompanying musicians and he always keeps the audience informed of the music(listen to his intro on "I'm GonnaGo Fishin'").

If you dig a great vocalist.....and one who can scat with the best, this is a must!

Mel Torme: live, in a small club.... -Wow!.......2001-12-28

The greatest "missed opportunity" regret of my life, musically speaking, was missing a chance to see Mel and his band on a Canadian tour in the late '80s. I was booked to fly to Europe five days before he would play in my home city.
This CD gives a glimpse into the amazing experience of Mr. Torme in concert, even late in his life. This was recorded in NYC at a small club where Mel had an annual standing date with a big band. As it happens, this is the disc I had playing when I logged onto this site, and as I'm sitting here listening I had to write my endorsement. Quite simply, Mel Torme is arguably the most overlooked talent in Jazz singing, and compared to some of his contemporaries (Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Joe Williams) Mel's voice has aged amazingly; his voice is different than when he was 20, but I can't say it's diminished at all. This disc showcases his effortless phrasing, impeccable intonation and timing -a real vocal showcase! Listen as he perfectly scats a Charlie Parker solo on track 14! The song selections are summed up by the album title, but really are characteristic of a typical Torme live setlist: a mix of familiar and lesser-known songs by America's great composers.
One final detail to mention: the sonic quality of this disc is outstanding! It's on the Telarc label, noted for their quality recordings, and it really showcases what a good stereo system can do; there's a palpable sense of the recording venue, with a wide, deep soundstage and distinct imaging placement of the instruments.

vintage Torme.......1999-05-06

This is a very classy CD. Very smooth and listenable. Put this on along with other Torme CDs or some Julie London, Sarah Vaughn, maybe June Christie and pour yourself a double (Glenlivit or Crown Royal is my choice) , sit back in you favorite chair and let the music take you away.

Average customer rating:

I can't believe no one has sang the praises of this cd!

The Original Great American Songbook
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Utv Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

The Best of the Definitive American Songbook, Vol. 2: I-Z
The Best of the Definitive American Songbook, Vol. 1 (A-I)
Timeless: The Great Romantic Standards
Great American Love Songs: Romantic Standards Collection
Eternal Romance: Classic Love Songs

ASIN: B0000CERNS
Release Date: 2003-10-07

Tracks:

You Got To My Head - Billie Holiday
They Can't Take That Away From Me - Louis Armstrong
The Way You Look Tonight - Fred Astaire
It Had To Be You - Billie Holiday
That Old Feeling - Billy Eckstine
These Foolish Things (Remind Me Of You) - Nat King Cole
The Very Thought Of You - Johnny Hartman
Moonglow - Billie Holiday
I'll Be Seeing You - Carmen McRae
Ev'ry Time We Say Goodbye - Jeri Southern
The Nearness Of You - Louis Armstrong
For All We Know - Sarah Vaughan
We'll Be Togther Again - Anita O'day
That's All - Sarah Vaughan
I Get A Kick Out Of You - Dinah Washington
Misty - Johnny Mathis
Georgia On My Mind - Shirley Horn
Stardust - Dinah Washington

Customer Reviews:

I can't believe no one has sang the praises of this cd!.......2006-09-13

If you love old music like Billie Holiday and Louis Armstrong and Shirley Horn and so on, this album is fantastic.

The selections are not the most commonly heard versions yet they are very good versions. Most of this stuff was new to me, though I had heard the artists before.

I highly recommend this to anyone who loves music from this era. And if you aren't sure, this is a good place to start!

This is not my era, I am from the Beatles era; but this stuff is great to listen to in any era, and will live on and on. Expand your musical tastes; listen to some honest to goodness classics!

Average customer rating:

the good ol' days

Great American Songbook: The Crooners
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Essential Gold
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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World War II Songs: As Time Goes By
Great American Songbook: Ladies of Song
The Original Great American Songbook
Big Band Magic: The Sound of the Fabulous Forties
Those Were Our Songs: Music of World War II

ASIN: B0002PYS0G
Release Date: 2004-08-24

Tracks:

If - Perry Como
There! I've Said It Again - Vaughn Monroe
Linda - Buddy Clark
It Isn't Fair - Don Cornell
All or Nothing at All - Frank Sinatra
Way You Look Tonight - Fred Astaire
Besame Mucho - Andy Russell
To Each His Own - Eddy Howard
(I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons - Nat King Cole
Moonlight Becomes You - Bing Crosby
My Foolish Heart - Billy Eckstine
Loveliest Night of the Year - Mario Lanza
My Heart Cries for You - Vic Damone
It Can't Be Wrong - Dick Haymes
Lady of Spain - Eddie Fisher, Eddie Fisher, Eddie Fisher
Blue Velvet - Tony Bennett
Amor - Andy Russell
Paradise - Russ Columbo
There's No Tomorrow - Tony Martin
Again - Mel Torm
You Belong to Me - Dean Martin

Tracks:

Because of You - Tony Bennett
My Darling, My Darling - Buddy Clark
Night and Day - Fred Astaire
That Lucky Old Sun (Just Rolls Around Heaven All Day) - Frankie Laine
I Hear a Rhapsody - Bob Eberly
Love Somebody - Buddy Clark, Doris Day
Till the End of Time - Perry Como
Cottage for Sale - Billy Eckstine
Kiss of Fire - Tommy Martin
If You Are But a Dream - Frank Sinatra
Room Full of Roses - Don Cornell
Just One More Chance - Bing Crosby
Little White Lies - Dick Haymes
That's Amore - Dean Martin
Because You're Mine - Mario Lanza
You Call It Madness (But I Call It Love) - Russ Columbo
Jealousy - Frankie Laine
Mona Lisa - Nat King Cole
You're Breaking My Heart - Vic Damone
My Devotion - Vaughn Monroe
Day by Day - Bing Crosby, Mel Torm
Anytime - Eddie Fisher, Eddie Fisher, Eddie Fisher

Tracks:

By My Love - Mario Lanza
Too Young - Nat King Cole
Out of Nowhere - Bing Crosby
Just Say I Love Her - Vic Damone
I Apologize - Billy Eckstine
I Get Ideas - Tony Martin
Mam'selle - Frank Sinatra
Cheek to Cheek - Fred Astaire
I'll Always Love You (Day After Day) - Dean Martin
I'm Yours - Don Cornell
Breeze and I - Bob Eberly
I Get Along Without You Very Well - Bob Eberly
Peg O' My Heart - Buddy Clark
You'll Never Know - Dick Haymes
Prisoner of Love - Perry Como
(It's No) Sin - Eddy Howard
Very Thought of You - Vaughn Monroe
Wish You Were Here - Eddie Fisher, Eddie Fisher, Eddie Fisher
Careless Hands - Mel Torm
Cold, Cold Heart - Tony Bennett
That's My Desire - Frankie Laine

Customer Reviews:

the good ol' days.......2007-06-11

This takes me back to when I was a kid listening to the radio. My parents had the control and there were no "rock" stations, anyway. My mom would sing along and sometimes we would "dance" to the music in the kitchen. Ah, youth.

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It Had To Be You	As Time Goes By	Stardust
Bette Midler Sings the Rosemary Clooney Songbook	Bette Midler Sings the Peggy Lee Songbook	The Great American Songbook