Sassy: The Life Of Sarah Vaughan
As a teenager Sarah Vaughan (1924-1990) sang in the churches and nightclubs of Newark, N.J. At 19, she was signed by Earl "Fatha" Hines to sing with his band, amazing such performers as Billy Ekstine and Carmen McCrae with her easy mastery of complex vocalizations. "I drink booze, I smoke cigarettes, I stay high, I stay up all night, I hang out," Vaughan once explained smartly. Music critic Gourse ( Unforgettable: The Life and Mystique of Nat King Cole ) offers no greater insight into Sassy's singular talent, but nonetheless provides an amicable, informative and fact-filled first biography of this unparalleled performer. Gourse relies on interviews with family and associates, newspaper and magazine articles and even album notes to describe her subject's 40-year career, from her discovery at Harlem's Apollo Theatre through her managers, lovers and husbands, her travels, recording sessions and critics' comments. A comprehensive (although not complete) discography is included. Photos not seen by PW.Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.