Customer Reviews

Rockin Chair Lady

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Listening to this excellent compilation of Mildred Bailey recordings it's impossible to detect any evidence of a rather sad career beset with personal adversity which neither peaked enough to enjoy enduring mainstream popularity nor hit the downward spiral sufficiently for anyone to really care. As the first successful white female jazz vocalist she was initially influenced by Bessie Smith and Ethel Waters, but Mildred chose not to adapt either their blues or ballad style each had made their own. Instead she followed a similar eclectic route as Billie Holiday whom she admired although with voices dissimilar; Mildred's had a high bell-like quality with perfect diction and ability to interpret lyrics in a believable way which heightened any song's sentiments.

Compared to Billie, Mildred's recording career has received less attention, and this excellent two-disc anthology of fifty tracks is a welcome addition to already available compilations; beginning in 1929, thoroughly covering the 30's and ending in 1946. Fortunately, Mildred was usually backed by the very best musicians and early in her career she recorded with Paul Whiteman, then husband Red Norvo's Orchestra before moving on to front an outfit of her own, with odd sessions with named bands like Benny Goodman. This set naturally includes her biggest hit ROCKIN' CHAIR which peaked in 1930, and other popular songs of the day, GEORGIA ON MY MIND, LAZY BONES, HEAT WAVE and I'VE GOT MY LOVE TO KEEP ME WARM which became enduring standards. However the included non-hits A PORTER'S LOVE SONG TO A CHAMBERMAID, JUNK MAN and WEEKEND OF PRIVATE SECRETARY etc. also confirm Mildred's versatility and the sheer variety of material she recorded, with all songs stamped with her individual style.

Although this collection, together with its excellent career over-view and discography is intended to mark the 2007 centenary of Mildred's birth, recent evidence suggests the lady was possibly older than claimed. Nevertheless, believe the myth and enjoy this excellent overview of a career which deserves celebration.

I'm a young dixieland banjo player currently immersing myself in the old-time jazz music. Mildred Bailey gives flawless execution and has a creamy voice with lyrics and music that takes you back to how it was then. Personally, compared with Bessie Smith and some others, Mildred can't touch them (but then nobody can). All and all, if you're into polished swing, this is good stuff.