Ultimate Dinah Washington

"Ultimate Dinah Washington" is a captivating journey through the illustrious career of the legendary Dinah Washington, released on November 4, 1997, by Verve Reissues. This 52-minute collection is a treasure trove of vocal jazz, jazz, and jazz blues, showcasing Washington's powerful and versatile voice across a variety of timeless tracks.

The album features a mix of well-known standards and hidden gems, including "What A Difference A Day Made," "Cry Me A River," and "Unforgettable." Each song is a testament to Washington's ability to infuse deep feeling and nuance into every performance. The tracklist also includes "Cold, Cold Heart," "I'm A Fool To Want You," and "This Bitter Earth," highlighting her range and emotional depth.

Selected by the esteemed Abbey Lincoln, this compilation offers a curated selection that captures the essence of Dinah Washington's artistry. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to her music, "Ultimate Dinah Washington" provides a rich and rewarding listening experience, celebrating one of the most influential voices in jazz history. The album is a perfect addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection, offering a blend of classic and lesser-known tracks that showcase Dinah Washington's enduring legacy.

Dinah Washington, born Ruth Lee Jones, was a powerhouse vocalist and pianist who left an indelible mark on American music. Known as the "Queen of the Blues," she was one of the most popular black female recording artists of the 1950s, with a career that spanned jazz, blues, R&B, and traditional pop. Washington's exceptional voice control and unique gospel-inflected delivery made her a standout performer, and her recordings consistently topped the charts. She collaborated with legendary musicians like Quincy Jones and Brook Benton, and her interpretations of songs like "What a Difference a Day Makes" and "Mad About the Boy" are timeless classics. Despite her tragic death at the age of 39, Dinah Washington's influence on female rock and roll artists and her legacy as a versatile and influential vocalist continue to inspire new generations of musicians.