Chet Baker

In 1959 while in Italy, Chet Baker was showcased playing trumpet and (on five of the ten songs) singing a set of ballads while backed by a large string section. Fans will want this set but, due to the mundane string arrangements and the lack of variety, more general collectors should acquire his earlier jazz-oriented dates first. [Chet Baker with Fifty Italian Strings was reissued in 2006 with a bonus track.]

"Early Chet" compiles tracks jazz trumpeter Chet Baker recorded while on tour in the mid- and late '50s. These tracks were made at the height of Baker's popularity and showcase him in fine form throughout. Featured here are several (rare for Baker) big-band numbers, as well as two superb duets with Italian vocalist/guitarist Caterina Valente, "I Remember April" and "Everytime We Say Goodbye".

Chesney Henry "Chet" Baker Jr. (December 23, 1929 – May 13, 1988) was an American jazz trumpeter and vocalist. He is known for major innovations in cool jazz that led him to be nicknamed the "Prince of Cool".

Remastered from original master tapes and presented in single sleeves with original jackets and liner notes.

Remastered from original master tapes and presented in single sleeves with original jackets and liner notes.

This ten-CD box set is a treat for all jazz lovers: it contains a total of 17 original LPs by the legendary trumpeter, who was also a soulful singer. His fans regard Chet Baker as the co-creator of a restrained, typically cool, lyrical trumpet playing style inspired by Miles Davis. At the age of ten, his father had given him a slide trombone, which he swapped for a trumpet, following the example of Harry James. In a very short time, Baker learned to play simple swing melodies by himself and also showed a talent for improvisation. He became popular as a trumpet player in Gerry Mulligan's quartet, with whom he wrote the hit single "My Funny Valentine".

The amazing Chet Baker (1929-1988) was both a superb trumpet player and singer.

Chesney Henry "Chet" Baker, Jr. (December 23, 1929 – May 13, 1988) was an American jazz trumpeter, flugelhornist and vocalist.

Brings together the complete film recordings by legendary Italian composer Piero Umiliani featuring iconic West Coast trumpeter Chet Baker.