Singers and the Song II / Edition 3

by Gene Lees

Overview

Gene Lees is probably the best jazz essayist in America today, and the book that consolidated his reputation was Singers and the Song, which appeared in 1987. Now this classic volume is available in an expanded edition that retains a number of famous pieces from the original volume, including his marvelous essay on lyric writing, his piece on the art of Edith Piaf, and his admiring look at the genius of songwriter Johnny Mercer. In addition, this edition offers seven new essays that are no less accomplished. Here readers will find a wonderful tribute to "the sweetest voice in the world," Ella Fitzgerald; a moving interview with Jackie and Roy Kral; Lees's account of his involvement with Bossa Nova music and his collaboration with Antonio Carlos Jobim. We also read about Julius La Rosa, the lyrics of "Yip" Harburg, Harry Warren's unforgettable compositions, and the elegant Arthur Schwartz, writer of "Dancing in the Dark" and many other memorable songs.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780195122084
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Publication date:	11/18/1999
Edition description:	2ND
Pages:	272
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.40(h) x 1.00(d)
Lexile:	1030L (what's this?)

About the Author

Gene Lees is the author of many books on jazz and popular music, including Meet Me at Jim and Andy's, Waiting for Dizzy, Cats of Any Color, and Leader of the Band: The Life of Woody Herman. He was formerly an editor of Down Beat and is the publisher of Jazzletter. He lives in California.

Editorial Reviews

"If the words 'They don't write songs like that anymore' have ever crossed your lips, this book is for you."—The New York Times Book Review

"Each of these profiles is filled with personal details and anecdotes that could only come from a true insider."—The Nashville Times

From the Publisher