Great Gifts

Many memorable singers performed and recorded regularly in the United States in the 20th century. While there were instrumental hits during the Swing Era, the bulk of the most popular performances of the past century featured vocalists.

This 40-CD set focuses on virtually every major vocalist from the 1930-60 period, with a CD or two apiece featuring the music of a single singer. Showcased are Billie Holiday (who along with Frank Sinatra is the only vocalist featured on three CDs), Jimmy Rushing, Ivie Anderson (with Duke Ellington's orchestra), Jo Stafford, Anita O'Day, June Christy, Peggy Lee, Dinah Shore, Sarah Vaughan, Judy Garland, Mildred Bailey, Dinah Washington, Ella Fitzgerald, the Mills Brothers (from the 1930s), the Andrews Sisters, the Boswell Sisters, Lena Horne, Louis Armstrong, Cab Calloway, Nat King Cole, Perry Como and Bing Crosby.

Because it covers a wide range of time and a variety of styles, from hot jazz to smooth ballads, this giant set lets listeners savor the work of some of the truly great singers, and includes more than its share of gems and rarities. The 718 performances form quite a remarkable reissue.

—Scott Yanow