Reese

Della Reese was born Deloreese Patricia Early on July 6, 1931 in Detroit, Michigan and began singing in her local church from an early age. In late 1953 Della signed on with The Erskine Hawkins Orchestra and moved to New York and soon had a recording contract with Jubilee Records. Duke Ellington really needs no introduction, being considered by many as the greatest American composer of the 20th Century. His orchestra, over its 50 plus years of performing and recording, launched the careers of many of jazz's greatest stars. The line up for this 1962 performance still featured such respected alumni as Ray Nance, Johnny Hodges and Paul Gonsalves. This unique live concert broadcast featuring Della Reese and The Duke Ellington Orchestra was recorded on February 13, 1962 in New York City as part of a radio series specifically designed to promote a National Guard recruiting effort.

The many talents of Della Reese has meant she has enjoyed a long and successful career as top drawer performer of Jazz, Blues, R&B, Gospel and stylish pop music. Here the spotlight is on her two complete albums and a collection of her singles from Jubilee records including the classic hit 'And That Reminds Me'. This is a great introduction to the work of Della Reese and shows exactly why she was to considered one of the foremost interpreters of the American Songbook.