I came into jazz around about the time when Django, Bird and the Dorsey brothers died. As a youngster, reading my first Melody Makers, I figured that they must be something special - it didn't take me long to discover just how special they were.
Over the years, one by one the greats vanished, leaving behind cherished memories of concerts and albums. I was becoming blasé.
Everyone was dying but me and a select, albeit diminishing few. Well that few has become even more diminished - Annie Ross.
Cleo, Annie, Norma, A.N. Other - who was the greatest British jazz singer? I'm sure that all would nominate each other but this isn't sport where you tot up points or runs or speeds. This is about art and the interpretation of a lyric and few did it better than Annie.
I first heard her on an old Nixa 10" vinyl - Annie by Candlelight - with Tony Crombie playing "arranger's piano" and I was hooked. Then came the Lambert, Hendricks, Ross' sessions - sheer magic! I remember hearing them at Newcastle City Hall with the Basie Band and it was like - if I'm gonna die let it be now!
Billy Harper backed her at a semi-impromptu session at Newcastle's New Orleans Club in the early 1960's and was impressed by her professionalism and ability to adapt to any situation. Bill recounts that her set-list was written on the back of a British Rail menu card. He summed up saying, "Would that they were all like Annie!"
Indeed!
Annie Ross died yesterday (July 21) four days short of her 90th birthday. To say "Sadly missed" or "Rest In Peace" - heartfelt as it may be - seems so inadequate. Perhaps Duke should have the final word - "We love you madly".
Lance
Indeed!
Annie Ross died yesterday (July 21) four days short of her 90th birthday. To say "Sadly missed" or "Rest In Peace" - heartfelt as it may be - seems so inadequate. Perhaps Duke should have the final word - "We love you madly".
Lance
2 comments :
She sat in with Last Exit at the University Theatre (as was) and sang a blues but not Twisted in 1976ish. Great night and great to meet her.
When Cleo Laine was at Grey's Club, Annie Ross turned up with a few of the
Basie Band from the City Hall Show, And Cleo invited her up to sing.
With the Basie band cheering them on,we had a fabulous night to remember.
Those were the best nights, I'll never forget them!!
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