Lady Be Good
Sarah Vaughan and Mel Torme
Remarkable scat-singing
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In their long careers, Sarah Vaughan and Mel Torme never recorded together, and their joint appearances were very rare despite being active during the same time period.
Both had superb voices and were in their own categories; in fact one could not imagine anyone else (except Ella) challenging them in a tradeoff.
This very rare film clip is the only time I have ever seen Sassy and Torme sharing the same stage and, while one wishes that their version of “Lady Be Good” were several times longer, it contains enough dazzling moments to make it well worth watching several times.
Everyone, especially singers, should see this unique and high-powered performance.
-Scott Yanow