Vocalese is a technique by which a jazz singer adapts the human voice to an instrument. In 1957, Dave Lambert, Jon Hendricks and Annie Ross –– LH&R –– applied the style beyond the usual intimacy of a small combo, to full big band arrangements … with special emphasis on music of the Count Basie Orchestra. Lambert, Hendricks and Ross’ 1961 treatment of Four (Above) is a classic example.
From 1962 to 1964, Yolande Bavan replaced Ross and they became Lambert, Hendricks and Bavan. After the group disbanded in 1966, Jon Hendricks continued to perform into the mid-1980s, with the ultimate incarnation of Jon Hendricks and Company, consisting of his wife Michele, Daughter Judith and vocalist Bob Gurland. Their 1982 rendition of Count Basie’s Jumpin’ At The Woodside (Below) testifies to Hendricks’ enduring excellence and dedication to this unique musical genre.
