About this album
Where they were
By 1959, Sammy Davis Jr. was at a pivotal point in his career, transitioning from a member of the Rat Pack to a solo star seeking to expand his artistic repertoire. 'Porgy and Bess' followed his successful stint in film and live performances, showcasing his versatility beyond traditional pop and big band music.
Why it matters
This album is significant for its critical acclaim, as it brought Gershwin's operatic score to a broader audience through jazz interpretations. It has been praised for its innovative arrangements and vocal performances, marking an important moment in the crossover of classical and popular music genres.
Essential tracks
- "Summertime" — 'Summertime' is a hauntingly beautiful rendition that exemplifies Davis's ability to convey deep emotion through his vocal delivery, making it a quintessential piece of the album.
- "I Got Plenty O’ Nuttin’" — This track showcases Davis's playful charisma and rhythmic mastery, capturing the essence of joy found within the struggles depicted in the opera.
- "Bess, You Is My Woman" — With its heartfelt expression and lush arrangement, this track highlights the romantic core of the opera while allowing Davis to shine vocally.
Release Date
January 1, 1959
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Summertime
- 2 A Woman Is a Sometime Thing
- 3 My Man’s Gone Now
- 4 I Got Plenty O’ Nuttin’
- 5 Bess, You Is My Woman
- 6 It Ain’t Necessarily So
- 7 I Loves You Porgy
- 8 There’s a Boat Dat’s Leavin’ Soon for New York
- 9 Oh Bess, Oh Where’s My Bess
- 10 Oh Lawd, I’m on My Way
