King Pleasure (born Clarence Beeks 1922-1982) emerged in the early 1950's as one of the very few early practitioners of vocalese, a singing style in which lyrics were written and sung note for note to famous jazz instrumentals. During his brief career, which ended in 1960, he helped launch the careers of Jon Hendricks, (later the avatar of Lambert, Hendricks and Ross), Blossom Dearie and the great Betty Carter, who made her recording debut on Pleasure's Red Top. King Pleasure never recorded after 1960 and disappeared into obscurity; the rest of his life a mystery.
Exclamation Blues
Don't Get Scared with Jon Hendricks
Jumpin' With Symphony Sid
Moody's Mood For Love with Blossom Dearie
Red Top with Betty Carter
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