AMG Review of Incomparable Mildred Bailey

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

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.