Mildred Bailey was one of the top female jazz singers of the 1930s. The first female vocalist to sing regularly with a big band (
Paul Whiteman's), she was often associated with her husband, xylophonist
Red Norvo's orchestra and combos during her prime years. This sampler has 18 of
Bailey's better recordings (mostly from 1935-40) including "Someday Sweetheart," "It's Love I'm After," "Rockin' Chair," "Wham" and "I'm Nobody's Baby" (which has a futuristic trumpet solo from
Roy Eldridge). Because there are more comprehensive (and generous)
Bailey sets available, this CD is not essential, but it serves as a good introduction to the underrated singer. ~ Scott Yanow