With his sister Ella seductively serving as his primary vocalist (and qualifying for our series of ubersexy lady singers!), pianist Buddy Johnson led a large jump blues band that enjoyed tremendous success during the 1940s and '50s, rockin' the Savoy Ballroom nightly. The suave bandleader spotlighted a series of talented singers, including balladeers Arthur Prysock, Nolan Lewis, and Floyd Ryland, but it was Ella's understated delivery (beautifully spotlighted on the sumptuous ballad "Since I Fell for You") and Buddy's crisply danceable "Walk-Em Rhythm" that made the aggregation so successful for so long. Buddy moved over to in 1953, Buddy and Ella starteed on a new series of smashes with Ella's "Hittin' on Me" and "I'm Just Your Fool," the latter a 1954 standout that was later purloined by, of all people, Chicago harpist Little Walter, whose hits are out this month on Rev-Ola! Rock & Roll eventually somewhat halted Buddy Johnson's momentum, but the band kept scoring hits through 1958, not bowing out until another series of hits in 1964! "Since I Fell for You" has become a standard, ensuring Buddy and Ella's immortality in jazz circles. This first-time CD collection showcases their 1950s hits, irresistible dancers and sultry ballads alike - go on, you'll love it! Beautifully remastered in Rev-Ola-Sonic sound (it sauce here). Lovely artwork with detailed nots by Dave penny, our own King Of Rock n Roll! A must for all lovers of jazz, R&B, swing dancing and just plain great music!
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