Search - Sarah Vaughan :: Golden Hits

Experience the Incomparable Talent of Sarah Vaughn

Reviewer | 09/12/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Long before Bette Midler hit the scene, Sarah Vaughn was known as "The Divine One," and for good reason. Her voice is like clarity of mind; it's the soft, gentle breeze of summer upon which all of the sweet scents of the earth are carried; it's the sound that put the stars in the sky. And I envy anyone who has not yet experienced her music, because that moment of discovery is still ahead of them-- a moment after which all of the sounds of the world will somehow be forever changed, and in a good way, because the sound of Sarah is to the ear what sugar is to the tongue. So wait no longer. Delve into "Sarah Vaughn's Golden Hits," which will provide a transporting experience for established fans and "newbies" alike. This album contains arguably the best versions ever recorded of some of the classic songs of all time, beginning with "Misty," which opens the album. But more delicacies await, all of which make this collection a veritable feast for the senses (yes, all of them, not just the ear; this is music you can taste, smell and feel). "Autumn In New York" and "Moonlight In Vermont" will take you to another place and time, and you can call it what you will because it will be a place of your own choosing, and timeless; that is the effect of Sarah Vaughn's incredible voice. And that's just an example of the magic of this album. Call this a "sampling of Sarah," and know that while these songs are some of her best, the exciting thing is knowing that there are plenty more where this came from, more songs issued from that same unique well of excellence, waiting to take you on even more delightfully ethereal journeys born of one of the purest sounds ever recorded. There are some of her "pop" hits represented here, as well, such as "The Banana Boat Song," "Broken Hearted Melody" and "Smooth Operator," which are indicative of her wide range and appeal. One of the incomparable talents of our times, Sarah Vaughn may be gone, but thanks to albums like "Sarah Vaughn's Golden Hits," her music will be with us forever, and so will she. Such talent cannot and will not ever be forgotten."

Greater than Great

Jim Andrews | Chicago, Illinois USA | 11/27/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Compiling this album initially was an afterthought at Mercury. The C.D. version completes what the album started by adding signficant tracks the L.P. should have included. The new liner notes by Will Friedwald are insightful and intriguing. As for the music, it is divine start to finish. And how wonderful to have Sassy's magnificent and legendary duet with Billy Eckstine, "Passing Strangers," on C.D. You will be amazed at the sheer breadth of the material here--this woman could sing, and did sing, ANYTHING brilliantly. There's so much here, and maybe some gems you've never heard, such as "C'est La Vie.""

In A Class All By Herself!

WILLIE A YOUNG II | Houston, TX. | 07/27/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Absolutely NOBODY had as much control, mastery and complete understanding of the first instrument like Sarah Vaughn. The passing of this monumentally gifted artist 10 years ago was truly the end of an era, and left a void that can never be filled. This is SINGING. On such standards as "Autumn in New York", "Misty" and "Whatever Lola Wants" her range of expression and emotion with a lyric is simply staggering. My mother Sharron owns this classic on vinyl and regularly blesses me with repeated plays of her favorite "Broken Hearted Melody" and then just lets me drift away into musical euphoria with the rest of the selections. There is not a wasted moment on this LP and it is especially rewarding to lovers of big band, swing and traditonal jazz as the numerous bands that accompany her provide brilliant backing on every number. No music collection is complete without someting by the divine Ms. Vaughn, and for my money, this is the best place to start! TIMELESS!"