Polly Bergen Early Years CD

Mostly known as a TV and film actress, Polly Bergen recorded several album of pop standards in the 1950s and '60s, as well as using her expressive voice onstage in musicals. This rare collection features recordings from the very beginning of her career, showcasing tunes from 1950 through 1956.

The looks and poise of a 1950s Vogue model; the mentholated singing voice; the actress' approach to words all these helped launch Polly Bergen on a career that began in the late 40s and still thrives today. This CD includes almost every side she cut before 1957, when she burst into prominence with an Emmy-winning TV portrayal of the legendary torch singer Helen Morgan. Earlier on, Bergen had recorded a scattered pile of hillbilly tunes (the by-product of her birth in Tennessee), novelty kitsch, and a fine first album of torch songs, heard here in its entirety.

Audio Remasterer: Robin Cherry.

Liner Note Authors: James Gavin; Tony Middleton .

Recording information: Los Angeles, CA (1950-1956); New York, NY (1950-1956).

Personnel: Polly Bergen (vocals); Joe Venuti (violin); Matty Matlock (clarinet); George Tibbles (piano).

Additional personnel: Ramey Idriss (guitar); Paul Toenniges (bass instrument); The Mellowmen & Orchestra, The Joe Leahy Orchestra, Morty Stevens & His Orchestra, George Tibbles, Joe Venuti, Matty Matlock, The Orchestra.