The Jazz Real Book

52-“Call Me Irresponsible” and Bobby Darin  Standards Rating 7 Difficulty Rating 6  Bobby Darin’s rendition of "Call Me Irresponsible" exemplifies his ability to blend charm and sophistication with a vocal style that transitions seamlessly between crooning and swing. Written by Jimmy Van Heusen with lyrics by Sammy Cahn, the song earned an Academy Award in 1964 for Papa’s Delicate Condition. Darin’s 1964 recording, arranged by Richard Wess, highlights his versatility as an interpreter of the Great American Songbook. Backed by a lush swing ensemble, Darin’s phrasing captures the song’s self-deprecating yet endearing tone, conveying vulnerability while maintaining romantic confidence. Darin’s interpretation adds dynamic shifts that build intensity before resolving into a subdued conclusion, showcasing his ability to bring nuance to a standard. “Call Me Irresponsible” solidified its place in the jazz and pop repertoire with iconic recordings by artists like Frank Sinatra and Jack Jones. However, Darin’s version stands out for its technical precision and emotive delivery balance, underscoring his lasting legacy in American music. Bobby Darin Version  Frank Sinatra Version Spotify Playlist 

51-“Call Me” and Nancy Wilson  Nancy Wilson (1937–2018) was an acclaimed American jazz and pop singer known for her smooth voice, exceptional phrasing, and ability to blend genres. Born in Ohio, she began her career early, hosting a TV show at 15. Her breakthrough came in 1959 when she signed with Capitol Records, leading to her debut album, Like in Love. Her collaboration with Cannonball Adderley on their 1961 album solidified her as a premier jazz vocalist. Wilson's biggest hit, “(You Don’t Know) How Glad I Am,” earned a Grammy in 1965, exemplifying her ability to merge jazz, soul, and pop. Over her career, she released over 70 albums and won three Grammys, among other honors.  Wilson recorded “Call Me” for her 1966 album A Touch of Today. The jazz standard, written by Tony Hatch, gained fame from Chris Montez’s bossa nova-inspired 1966 hit. Wilson’s rendition is vibrant and funk-inflected, showcasing her precise delivery, though the arrangement leans toward overproduction. In contrast, Brazilian pianist Eliane Elias’s version on Dreamer (2004) embraces a slower Latin jazz style with lush instrumentation, highlighting its melodic elegance. Through its adaptability, “Call Me” remains a favorite among jazz and pop audiences, illustrating Wilson's skill in reinterpreting standards. Spotify Playlist  Nancy Wilson Version  Elaine Elias 

Ep 50- “C'est Si Bon” and Eartha Kitt  Eartha Kitt's recording of C'est Si Bon in 1953 is one of her most iconic performances, showcasing her sultry voice and unique style. The French song, composed by Henri Betti with lyrics by André Hornez, became a global hit after its release. Kitt’s version, with Henri René's sophisticated arrangements, added a distinctive charm. Kitt, a multi-talented singer, actress, and activist, was known for her sensual stage presence and versatile musical talent. Born in 1927, she rose to fame in the 1950s, particularly in Paris, and became renowned for hits like Santa Baby and her role as Catwoman in the Batman TV series. Kitt’s activism, especially her bold stance on the Vietnam War, made her a fearless public figure. Her C'est Si Bon remains a classic example of her ability to blend jazz, cabaret, and pop, cementing her legacy in both music and culture. ⁠Eartha Kitt ⁠ ⁠Louis Armstrong ⁠ ⁠Spotify Playlist ⁠

49-Freddie Hubbard "Byrdlike" (Birdlike) Standards Rating 4 Difficulty Rating 8 Freddie Hubbard’s “Birdlike,” from his 1962 album Ready for Freddie, is a fiery bebop composition that pays tribute to Charlie Parker. The track opens with an angular, II-V-driven intro leading into a creatively harmonized 12-bar blues form. Hubbard’s solo is a masterclass in bebop improvisation, showcasing his technical brilliance, innovative phrasing, and signature tone. Known for blending complexity with lyricism, Hubbard balances rapid-fire runs with moments of space, creating a compelling narrative in his improvisation. His remarkable control over dynamics and articulation further underscores his status as one of jazz’s finest trumpeters. This composition highlights Hubbard’s virtuosity and cements his legacy as a trailblazer who helped define the hard bop era.  Spotify Playlist  Freddie Hubbard -YouTube  George Cables YouTube