The short-lived Variety label released some great jazz records in 1937. It was produced by Irving Mills’ Master Records, Inc. – so it makes sense that we see a lot of pickup bands with personnel from the Duke Ellington orchestra.
Ivie Anderson, who had been singing with the Ellington orchestra dating back to 1931, sings on this track – and shows her remarkable talent and charm.
The vocals are followed by a quick succession of solos: trombone, alto sax, piano, and a few bars of Barney Bigard’s clarinet.
When it was released in June of 1937, the record was panned by Billboard, who wrote: “For that undiluted swing The Gotham Stompers fail to send. In spite of such star swingsters as Johnny Hodges, Barney Bigard, Harry Carney and Cootie Williams, from Duke’s Ellingtonians, with Ivy Anderson’s piping to boot, tooters never once take their jammin’ seriously. And even the presence of drummer Chuck Webster, nee Chick Webb, fails to inspire ’em.”
Recorded in New York City, March 25, 1937.
Released as Variety 541.
Credits:
Ivie Anderson – vocals
Cootie Williams – trumpet
Sandy Williams – trombone
Barney Bigard – clarinet
Johnny Hodges – alto sax
Harry Carney – baritone sax
Tommy Fulford piano
Bernard Addison – guitar
Billy Taylor – bass
Chick Webb – drums
Wayman Carver – arranger
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