Overview
As we saw in earlier lessons, solo singers became increasingly important during the 1930s. Singers such as Ella Fitzgerald and Bing Crosby built long, successful careers with their interpretations of jazz and Broadway standards. More and more singers followed in this mold in the 1940s and early 1950s, including Frank Sinatra, Perry Como, Patti Page, and Doris Day. Singing groups were common as well, such as the Ink Spots and the Boswell Sisters. Although many singers began in the Broadway or big band mold, many branched out into covers of all types of tunes from a variety of genres.
Objectives
- Examine a number of popular singers and singing groups from the 1940s and 1950s
- Examine how each singer or group offered a unique perspective for the interpretation of standard tunes
- Recognize the different interpretations of the same standard
- Examine how each artist was able to create an identity while performing much of the same repertory
Conclusion
The pop charts in the 1940s and early 1950s were dominated by sweet, sentimental popular songs that were delivered by stars. Many of these singers had started their careers with big bands, but success and demand drove them to pursue solo careers. Yet, the face of popular song was about to change drastically. By the end of the 1960s, pop singing would have had changed beyond recognition. This change began to occur in the 1950s as the genre of rhythm and blues began to cross over into the mainstream popular music charts.
