Whitney Balliett Libros

The New Yorker's acclaimed criticism, reportage, and obituary in a journal-record of events, personalities, and sidelights of New York's scene in the early 1970's

When Whitney Balliett's American Musicians was published in Fall 1986, it received universal acclaim, with Leonard Feather praising his unmatched grace and enthusiasm for jazz figures from Jack Teagarden to Ornette Coleman. Bruce Cook hailed it as the "quintessential Whitney Balliett," showcasing his strength as a writer. This revised edition of American Singers doubles the book's size by adding thirteen new biographical profiles, complementing American Musicians. It includes all of Balliett's profiles on singers from The New Yorker, featuring original chapters on vocal legends like Ray Charles and Tony Bennett, along with fresh portraits of Mel Tormé, Julius La Rosa, and Peggy Lee. He expands his study of cabaret masters by including Julie Wilson and adds new chapters on singer-pianists Cleo Brown and Nellie Lutcher, as well as Carol Sloane, Betty Carter, and David Frishberg. Notably, there is an extended profile of Alec Wilder, a lyrical American songwriter. Over three decades, Balliett has established himself as America's foremost jazz critic, with Philip Larkin noting his poetic approach to jazz journalism. Gene Lees recognized him as one of the most graceful essayists, capturing the essence of a singer's voice and making readers feel as if they are listening in on intimate conversations.