Herb Jeffries

If I Were King. Herb Jeffries

American jazz singer and songwriter Herb Jeffries began his recording career with legendary pianist Earl Hines' orchestra in 1934 and went on to record with Duke Ellington from 1940 to 1942. Jeffries' most famous song, "Flamingo," recorded in 1940 with Ellington, sold over 50 million copies. Jeffries is also noted for being the first black man to star in an American western, known to his legions of fans as "The Bronze Buckaroo." Blessed with a 4 -+ octave vocal range, Jeffries, still performing in his 90's, is widely recognized as one of America's greatest jazz singers. Presented here is Jeffrie's classic tribute to Nat King Cole, "If I Were King... Herb Jeffries Sings Memories of Nat King Cole," originally released in 1978 and features Lou Levy (piano); Fred Atwood (bass) and John Dentz (drums). All selections newly re-mastered.