Louis Prima And Keely Smith That Old Black Magic
When talking about jazz standards, one cannot ignore the impact of Louis Prima and Keely Smith, particularly their rendition of “That Old Black Magic.” This song, written by Harold Arlen and Johnny Mercer, has become a staple in jazz music, and Prima and Smith’s version has been covered countless times over the years. Let’s take a closer look at the history of “That Old Black Magic” and the unique partnership between Prima and Smith.
The History of “That Old Black Magic”
“That Old Black Magic” was written in 1942 by Harold Arlen and Johnny Mercer for the MGM musical, “Star Spangled Rhythm.” It was first performed by Johnny Johnston and danced to by Vera Zorina. The song’s lyrics describe the effect that love, or “black magic,” has on the singer. It quickly became a hit and has been covered by many artists over the years.
One of the most famous versions of “That Old Black Magic” was recorded by Louis Prima and Keely Smith in 1958. Their recording was a part of their album, “The Wildest!” which became one of the most successful albums of the year.
The Unique Partnership of Louis Prima and Keely Smith
Louis Prima and Keely Smith began their partnership in the late 1940s when Smith auditioned to be a singer in Prima’s band. Prima was immediately impressed by Smith’s voice and hired her on the spot. They quickly became a popular act, known for their lively performances and comedic banter.
In the 1950s, Prima and Smith began to focus more on their music and less on their comedic routines. They recorded several albums together, including “The Wildest!” which featured their version of “That Old Black Magic.” Their recording of the song was unique in that it featured Smith’s vocals, rather than Prima’s. Smith’s smooth, sultry voice complemented Prima’s energetic style, creating a perfect balance.
The Legacy of Louis Prima and Keely Smith
Louis Prima and Keely Smith’s version of “That Old Black Magic” has become one of the most recognizable jazz recordings of all time. Their unique partnership and distinctive styles have influenced countless musicians over the years. Prima’s energetic, upbeat style and Smith’s smooth, sultry voice are still celebrated by jazz fans around the world.
Smith passed away in December 2017, but her legacy lives on through her music with Prima. As for Prima, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995, cementing his status as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.
Conclusion
“That Old Black Magic” is a jazz standard that has been covered by countless musicians over the years. However, Louis Prima and Keely Smith’s version stands out as one of the most memorable. Their unique partnership and distinctive styles have influenced jazz music for generations, and will continue to do so for years to come.