About this album

Sound: "A vibrant blend of jazz and pop, showcasing Wilson's rich vocals over lush arrangements."

Where they were

Released in August 1964, 'How Glad I Am' was Nancy Wilson's follow-up to her breakthrough album 'Something Wonderful.' At this point in her career, she was solidifying her status as a prominent jazz and R&B vocalist, garnering critical acclaim and expanding her audience with her dynamic interpretations.

Why it matters

'How Glad I Am' received significant praise for its sophisticated production and vocal performances, helping Wilson earn a Grammy Award for Best Rhythm & Blues Recording. The album's successful blend of genres contributed to the popularization of jazz-inflected pop music during the 1960s.

Essential tracks

  • "How Glad I Am" — The title track exemplifies Wilson's ability to convey joy and optimism through her powerful vocal delivery, setting the tone for the entire album.
  • "Boy From Ipanema" — Wilson's rendition of this classic bossa nova standard showcases her versatility and ability to interpret international influences with ease.
  • "Don’t Rain on My Parade" — This track highlights Wilson's dramatic vocal range and emotional depth, making it one of the standout moments on the album.
  • "People" — Her interpretation of this poignant ballad adds a layer of introspection, revealing Wilson's talent for connecting with her audience on an emotional level.

Release Date

August 1, 1964

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 How Glad I Am 2:40
  2. 2 The Grass Is Greener 2:09
  3. 3 Boy From Ipanema 2:14
  4. 4 The Show Goes On 2:52
  5. 5 Don’t Rain on My Parade 2:14
  6. 6 Never Less Than Yesterday 2:24
  7. 7 I Wanna Be With You 2:07
  8. 8 It’s Time to Go 1:57
  9. 9 People 3:44
  10. 10 West Coast Blues 2:02
  11. 11 Quiet Nights 2:01