Johnny Mercer:too Marvelous

Description

Here is the definitive collection of Johnny Mercer (1909-1976), a show-business phenomenon. Not only did he write the (usually witty, polished) lyrics for more popular songs than any other songwriter in history, as well as composing many fine numbers himself, he also founded Capitol Records in 1942 and, as a performer, his genial vocal style won him huge popularity in its own right - and 29 chart successes. In short, he was simply Too Marvelous For Words. Retrospective's 2 CD survey presents, on the first disc, 28 of his finest creations, in each case sung by its best contemporary interpreter. He collaborates with 17 different composers, notably Harold Arlen (e.g. That Old Black Magic- Judy Garland), Hoagy Carmichael (e.g. Skylark- Dinah Shore) or Harry Warren (e.g. Jeepers Creepers- Louis Armstrong), as well as his very own songs (e.g. I'm An Old Cowhand- Bing Crosby). The second disc shines the spotlight on Johnny Mercer the singer. And what a great performer he was! Opening with a rare, superb version of his and Hoagy Carmichael's Lazy bones from 1933, the selection includes 14 of his top 20 hits. Mercer was always at his best when performing with other top personalities, and 10 duets are included with such stars as Nat King Cole, Bing Crosby, Jack Teagarden and Bobby Darin. The whole programme contains no fewer than 10 Oscar-winners or nominations (In The Cool, Cool, Cool Of The Evening, Moon River)!