Jimmy Scott Everybody's Somebody's Fool CD

Digitally remastered by Erick Labson (1996, MCA Music Media Studios).

Jimmy Scott is rightly considered by many to be one of the finest jazz singers ever. Actor Joe Pesci said he learned to act by watching Little Jimmy Scott sing when he was growing up. This set includes some his first sessions, from 1950-1952. The earliest four sets feature Scott accompanied by Lionel Hampton & His Orchestra.

"I Wish I knew" is positively riveting as Hampton's vibes dance around Scott's singing, and Doug Duke's organ lays a soft blanket underneath it all. The previously unissued (one of three such tracks in this collection) "Alone With a Memory" is a real gem. The attention that came to Jimmy Scott (the "Little" was only in use in the first decade of his career) in the '90s brought forth a series of powerfully emotional new recordings. Among these are DREAM, ALL THE WAY, HEAVEN, and HOLDING BACK THE YEARS, all of which are highly recommended. The renewed interest also allowed for well-considered reissues such as this, which prove that Scott's emotional and technical finesse was there from the outset.

Recorded in New York, New York between 1950 and 1952. Includes liner notes by Billy Vera.

Personnel: Little Jimmy Scott (recorder); Wes Montgomery (guitar); Jerry Sanfino, Curtis Lowe, Kriby Alexander, Jerry Jerome, Johnny Board, Billy Williams , Bobby Plater (alto saxophone); Lonnie Shaw, Stan Getz, Thompson, George Berg (tenor saxophone); Clarence Williams, Danny Bank, Hampton (baritone saxophone); Jimmy Wonick, Gil Askey, Harold Baker, Al Grey, Paul Lee , Taft Jordan, Benny Powell (trumpet); Jerome Richardson, Kai Winding, Tyree Glenn, John Saunders (trombone); Doug Duke (piano, organ); Ed Swanson (piano); John Simmons , Peck Morrison, Roy Johnson (bass instrument); Elise Bartee, John Hunt , Herb Lovelle (drum).

Personnel includes: Little Jimmy Scott (vocals); Lionel Hampton & His Orchestra; Lucky Thompson & His Orchestra; Billy Taylor & His Orchestra.