Pick Yourself Up – 1994

Mel Torme

A powerhouse performance by Torme

Click here if you have a memory of this artist that you’d like to share

Mel Torme (1925-99) was a superb singer who could scat on the level of one of his major influences, Ella Fitzgerald.

He was also one of the very few singers who seemed to improve in power, range and creativity throughout his sixties.

He was 69 when he performed this scat-filled rendition of “Pick Yourself Go” with a rhythm section that included pianist John Colianni.

His interplay with the pianist and the endless breaths that he takes during his scatting make this quite a showcase for Torme’s artistry.

-Scott Yanow

Click here if you have a memory of this artist that you’d like to share