Review of Sarah Vaughan album ‘Live At Rosy’s’ 1978

The voice of Sarah Vaughan comes back to audiences in ‘Live At Rosy’s.’ This is a recording of the jazz icon’s show in New Orleans on May 31, 1978.

Sarah Vaughan, a Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award-winner, is an undeniable jazz icon. Unfortunately, the world lost her to lung cancer at just 66 in 1990. However, her voice lives on in recordings and the hearts of fans everywhere.

Earlier this year, Resonance Records released Live At Rosy’s. This recording is from a New Orleans performance on May 31, 1978. With characteristic depth in performance, dynamics in vocals and sassy personality, Sarah Vaughan once again captures audiences.

Live At Rosy’s opens with the classic “I’ll Remember April” – with Vaughan's expertly weighted voice added to the mix. This upbeat and up-tempo song immediately draws audiences in.

Immediately following “I’ll Remember April” is “I Fall in Love Too Easily.” This somber and smooth track highlights Vaughan's emotional power and range. Audiences are transported to a ‘50s lounge – drinking after midnight and sharing tales of love lost.

In the third track, Vaughan introduces her band. Here, the audience finds out who her talented drummer, bass and key players were. Additionally, listeners experience why and how Vaughan got the nickname “Sassy.” With a sharp whit and unapologetic humor, she made audiences laugh with ease.

As Live At Rosy’s continues, listeners experience heartbreak in songs like “Time After Time.” Then audiences are infected with joyousness in tracks such as “A Lot Of Livin’ To Do.” Included on the record is one of Vaughan’s signature numbers – “Send In The Clowns.” Always a crowd favorite, her rendition here nearly moves listeners to tears.

Sarah Vaughan was lost to audiences far too young. Thankfully, recordings such as this exist – keeping the voice of this master alive.