(December 6, 2019) He was an icon who possessed a legendary voice. Al Jarreau was the most completely unique vocalist in American recorded music, and he was an American Treasure. One of the most versatile artists of the of the 20th Century, Al Jarreau is the only artist to win Grammy’s in 3 different categories (R&B, pop and jazz). Over the course of a spectacular 50-year career, Jarreau was no stranger to the Grammys, having captured seven of the coveted trophies, including honors for best jazz vocal performance, best traditional R&B vocal performance and best male pop vocal performance.
Al established an enviable solo career that won over jazz and soul audiences with his keen sense of melody, his classy production, and a great, soulful falsetto voice. He was simply one of a kind.
As one of the most versatile vocalists in recent pop or jazz or R&B, that makes him an ideal choice to breathe new life into traditional Holiday songs. Jarreau’s Christmas was the singer’s first-ever holiday release, and the 2008 Rhino album showcases his euphonious tenor on a dozen yuletide classics. From time-honored carols like “Hark The Herald Angels Sing” and sacred songs like “Gloria In Excelsis” (Gloria in Excelsis Deo) to such ’40s musical favorites as “Winter Wonderland,” it is infectious and a lock to capture the spirit of Christmas in everyone!
Check out “Winter Wonderland” below, and enjoy a Merry Christmas from Al Jarreau!
By Vic McLean
Al Jarreau – “Winter Wonderland”