I’m not sure if it’s just me, but as the 1950’s rolled around, the Great American Songbook seemed to show signs of strain.

It was competing with an entirely new landscape that was not interested in the status quo. Jazz was straining against the mainstream, while simultaneously relying on the ‘Songbook’ for material. Meanwhile, the smaller bands that replaced big bands were moving quickly toward a more intense R&B feel, with an emphasis on Black culture that had little use for the self-imposed sophistication of the Great American Songbook. Nevertheless, the songs that fit the bill at this point in time retained the intelligence and grace that defined their legacy.

Featured tracks include:

The Man That Got Away – Judy Garland

If I Were a Bell – Dinah Washington

Luck Be a Lady – Frank Sinatra

That’s Entertainment – Judy Garland

Satin Doll – Clarence Gatemouth Brown

That’s Amore – Dean Martin

All of You – Ella Fitzgerald

Fly Me to the Moon – Tony Bennett

Midnight Sun – Ella Fitzgerald

Misty – Johnny Mathis

Something’s Gotta Give – Mel Torme

Inamorata – Jerry Vale

Love Is a Many Splendored Thing – Clyde McPhatter