Let Me Call You Sweetheart

AMG Review of Let Me Call You Sweetheart

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

One of the finest jazz-influenced pop singers of the late '20s/early '30s, Ruth Etting had a cry in her voice, displayed a very attractive tone and uplifted lyrics. She was not as jazz-oriented as Annette Hanshaw and Connie Boswell, instead being in some ways the female Bing Crosby, bringing jazz phrasing into pop music. This enjoyable LP has 14 of her recordings from 1929-1936, most of which were formerly scarce. There is unfortunately no personnel listing (she is often backed by an orchestra), but it does not matter much since Etting is the main star throughout. Among the better songs are "Let Me Call You Sweetheart," the always-touching "Home," "Try a Little Tenderness," "A Cottage for Sale," "It's Easy to Remember," and "It's Been So Long." This is a satisfying set, although Ruth Etting's complete recordings are long overdue to be reissued on CD.