Christmas Spice so Very Nice
2020
Blossom Dearie
24.5K Listeners
Artist Bio
Blossom Dearie, a name synonymous with sophisticated charm and understated cool, carved a unique niche in the landscape of pop and jazz. Her distinctive, childlike voice, combined with her impeccable piano skills and wry wit, made her a beloved figure for decades. Born in 1924 in New York, Blossom Dearie's musical journey began early, leading her to Paris in the 1950s where she formed the vocal group, the Blue Stars. While the group found success, Dearie soon returned to the United States to pursue a solo career, quickly establishing herself as a singular talent in the New York club scene.
Dearie's repertoire was as eclectic as it was expertly curated. She had a knack for unearthing hidden gems and breathing new life into familiar standards. Her interpretations were never straightforward; she imbued each song with her own unique personality, often adding playful arrangements and unexpected twists. Her delicate phrasing and impeccable timing made even the most melancholic tunes feel strangely optimistic. A perfect example of this gift can be heard in her rendition of When Sunny Gets Blue, where she manages to convey both the sadness and the subtle hope within the lyrics.
Beyond her interpretations, Dearie was also a gifted songwriter, penning many original compositions that showcased her clever lyrics and sophisticated melodies. She could turn a simple phrase into a miniature masterpiece, often exploring themes of love, loss, and the absurdities of modern life. Her voice, often described as childlike, possessed a remarkable emotional depth. She could convey a world of feeling with a single, perfectly placed note. Dearie’s discography is a testament to her artistry, filled with recordings that continue to delight and inspire. Many listeners were first captivated by Dearie from hearing Put On a Happy Face in commercials, underscoring her enduring appeal. Her influence extends far beyond the jazz world, inspiring countless musicians and singers with her unique approach to performance. It's easy to hear why her fans find her version of I'm Old Fashioned so timeless and unforgettable.
Dearie's performances were intimate and engaging. She had a way of connecting with her audience that made each show feel like a personal conversation. She often interspersed her songs with witty anecdotes and charming stories, further endearing herself to her fans. Even a song as poignant as Quiet Nights (Corcovado) is delivered with her signature warmth. Blossom Dearie passed away in 2009, leaving behind a rich legacy of music that continues to enchant listeners around the world. Her songs remain a testament to her unique talent and enduring appeal, even on more obscure tracks such as Love Is a Necessary Evil. She remains a true original, a velvet voice with a playful heart.
Popular Albums
Blossom’s Planet (Planet One)
2000
Chez Wahlberg: Part One
1985
My New Celebrity Is You
1976
The Diva Series
1959
Blossom Dearie (Expanded Edition)
1957
Verve Jazz Masters 51: Blossom Dearie
Blossom Dearie Sings (45th Anniversary Edition)
Whisper for You
For Cafe Apres-Midi
Blossom Time at Ronnie Scott’s
Once Upon a Summertime
Ben Bagley’s Kurt Weill Revisited, Vol. II
Soubrette Sings Broadway Hit Songs
Ben Bagley’s Alan Jay Lerner Revisited
Give Him the Ooh-La-La
May I Come In?
My Gentleman Friend
Blossom Dearie Sings Comden and Green
I’m Hip
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