RIP, Carmen McRae (1920-1994)

Jazz singer Carmen McRae died on November 10, 1994, of in Beverly Hills, California from a stroke, following complications from respiratory illness.

Known as "The Singer's Singer," McRae was the winner of seven Grammy Awards and was best known for her behind-the-beat phrasing and her ironic interpretations of song lyrics.

In his book, The 101 Best Jazz Albums, Len Lyons recommends the album The Greatest of Carmen McRae (MCA). Unfortunately, the album is only available in vinyl, and Jim Determan, who updated the Lyons list, recommends the CD I'll Be Seeing You: A Tribute to Carmen McRae (GRC).

• Purchase The Greatest of Carmen McRae from Amazon.com.
• Purchase I'll Be Seeing You: A Tribute to Carmen McRae from Barnes & Noble.

McRae sings "The Very Thought of You" here:

Robert
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