(Book). Singing Jazz looks at the ups and downs of this tough profession through the eyes of legendary jazz singers; well-established performers; and some newcomers. Drawing on accounts from vocalists of yesterday and today in all major jazz styles; the book explores the musical influences of jazz singing; the learning process; whether on the road or in training; the challenges of building a repertoire; getting gigs; traveling; and performing under sometimes difficult circumstances; and the ongoing struggle for artistic recognition and financial security in the competitive world of popular music. To reveal the roots and evolution of this unique art form; authors Crother and Pinfold revisit the lives; words; and stylistic innovations of great singers in jazz history; including Carmen McRae; Dinah Washington; Mel Torme; Shirley Horn; Ethel Waters; Anita ODay; and many more. Plus interviewed especially for Singing Jazz some of todays best performers illustrate the contemporary view of jazz singing. Kitty Margolis; Mark Murphy; Helen Merrill; Mark Porter; Christine Tyrrell; and many others discuss the influences and experiences that have shaped their singing careers; and share insights on how their art is still evolving today.
#587597 in eBooks 2009-12-17 2009-12-17File Name: B00316UN84
Review
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Couldnt put it downBy NCnativeWell written. sad but interesting story of a musical original. Like a wreck you cant look away from. Syd Barrett self medicated his underlying mental troubles and remains to this day an underrated and misunderstood figure. Without him. Pink Floyd wouldnt have been set on their path to being a supergroup... or written most of "Dark Side of the Moon" OR "Wish You Were Here". Without his story David Bowie wouldnt have had the main inspiration for his "Ziggy Stardust" persona. His songwriting both with the Floyd and as a solo artist influenced countless others including Elvis Costello and Robin Hitchcock. If he had existed in a more medically enlightened time like today. his psychological struggles might have been diagnosable. treated and possibly even controlled. Its a hard but fascinating read encapsulating not just the musical scene but also the counter culture of the times and unfortunately. one of its great casualties..With his death in 2006 at age 60 may poor Syd Barrett find the peace and satisfaction that so eluded him in this mortal coil.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Informative and well writtenBy BullmanIf your a fan of Syd Barretts or of The Floyd then you have to read a book about them. this is the book. Very informative with out losing track of the purpose. Very enjoyable.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. The lunatics are on the grassBy Jasperadothis book is awesome if you are wanting to learn more about how syd spiraled into the abyss of the unknown. i myself have always been intrigued by the mystery of syd and there is a lot of cool stuff about syds songs and studio debacles. i would recommend this book to anybody who likes pink floyd and wants to know more about the origins of the songs and stories that spawned one of the greatest bands ever to exist
