Additional information
This box set includes the tracks originally released on ELLA FITZGERALD SINGS GEORGE & IRA GERSHWIN SONG BOOK on LP, as well as previously unissued and bonus tracks. Personnel includes: Ella Fitzgerald (vocals); Nelson Riddle (arranger, conductor); Benny Carter, Ted Nash, Ronnie Lang (alto saxophone); Plas Johnson (tenor saxophone); Pete Condoli, Don Fagerquist, Mannie Klein, Dale McMickle, Shorty Sherock, Cappy Lewis (trumpet); Vincent DeRosa (French horn); Israel Baker, Teddy Pederson (trombone); Karl DeKarske (bass trombone); Ed Gilbert (tuba); Buddy Collette, Jewell Grant, William Green, Champ Webb, Harry Klee (woodwinds); Katherine Julyie (harp); Paul Smith, Loe Levy (piano); Herb Ellis, Barney Kessel (guitar); Joe Mondragon, Joe Comfort, Ralph Pena (bass); Mel Lewis, Alvin Stoller (drums); Larry Bunker, Frank Flynn (percussion). Producer: Norman Granz. Reissue producers: Michael Lang, Ben Young. Recorded at Capitol Studios, Hollywood, California between January 5 and August 20, 1959. Discs one, two and three originally released on Verve (6082-5). Includes liner notes by Lawrence D. Stewart, Ben Young, Phil Bailey and Milt Bernhart. Digitally remastered by Chris Herles using 20-bit technology from the original master tapes (Polygram Studios). This is part of the Verve Master Edition series. The paradox of Ella Fitzgerald's prominence in the history of jazz singing and her lack of emotional intensity is much less apparent on this album. George Gershwin's affinity with jazz, and the corresponding delight jazz musicians take in performing his material, allow the singer to fly with the music. As for brother Ira's lyrics, they receive their due as cheerful, tender and always delightful examples of the lyricist's art. The Songbook series remains one of Ella Fitzgerald's major contributions--among many--to American popular music and this in particular is one of the best of the sizeable bunch.
