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Allmusic critic Scott Yanow gave the album four out of five stars, stating: “Much of the music on this excellent (but obscure) Carmen McRae LP has not been reissued, and certainly not in complete form. Accompanied by an orchestra arranged and conducted by either Tadd Dameron or Jimmy Mundy, McRae performs both standards and obscurities, ballads and medium-tempo tunes. The big band is pretty anonymous but fine in ensemble work; the main focus is on the singer’s voice anyway. Highlights include “Blue Moon”, “My Foolish Heart”, “I’m Putting All My Eggs In One Basket” and Mundell Lowe’s “All This Could Lead to Love”.”

Today In History Carmen McRae was born in New York on this date April 8, 1922. Carmen was a jazz singer, composer, pianist, and actress. Considered one of the most influential jazz vocalists of the 20th century. | CARTER™️ Magazine carter-mag.com #wherehistoryandhiphopmeet #historyandhiphop365 #carter #cartermagazine #blackhistorymonth #blackhistory #carmenmcrae https://www.instagram.com/p/B-uGOAPAPv9/?igshid=1xg3vysxfm0vk

Here to Stay

McRae’s interpretation often appears alongside other legendary versions by artists like Nat King Cole and Tony Bennett, yet it remains distinct due to her unique phrasing and "behind-the-beat" timing. The song explores themes of deep, constant affection and the joy found in the simple memory of a loved one.

“The Very Thought of You” is a pop standard published in 1934, music and words by Ray Noble

Photo by Frank Edwards

Book of Ballads is a 1958 album by jazz singer Carmen McRae, arranged by Frank Hunter.

Nina Simone and Her Friends is an album released by the Bethlehem Records label that compiled songs by jazz singers Nina Simone, Carmen McRae and Chris Connor.