Lambert, Hendricks & Ross

Lambert, Hendricks & Ross was a pioneering vocal jazz trio known for their innovative vocal arrangements, intricate harmonies, and virtuosic scat singing. Here are some facts about the group:

1. Formation and Early Years: Lambert, Hendricks & Ross was formed in the late 1950s by Dave Lambert, Jon Hendricks, and Annie Ross. The trio originally came together as part of Lambert's vocal group, which was known for its inventive vocalese arrangements of jazz standards. However, when Ross joined the group, they shifted their focus to a more intimate vocal trio format, with each member contributing to the group's unique sound.

2. Vocalese Pioneers: Lambert, Hendricks & Ross is credited with popularizing the vocalese style, which involves setting lyrics to instrumental jazz solos and improvisations. The trio's intricate vocal arrangements and precise harmonies allowed them to emulate the sound of a jazz ensemble, complete with horn lines, bass solos, and drum breaks. Their groundbreaking approach to vocal jazz paved the way for future generations of vocalists and vocal groups.

3. Key Albums and Collaborations: Lambert, Hendricks & Ross released several acclaimed albums during their relatively short career, including "Sing a Song of Basie" (1957), "The Swingers!" (1958), and "High Flying" (1959). These albums featured inventive vocal interpretations of jazz classics by composers such as Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and Horace Silver. The trio also collaborated with jazz luminaries like Cannonball Adderley and Quincy Jones, further solidifying their reputation as innovators in the jazz world.

4. Chart Success and Recognition: Lambert, Hendricks & Ross achieved commercial success with their albums and singles, earning praise from critics and audiences alike. Their album "Sing a Song of Basie" earned them a Grammy Award nomination for Best Performance by a Vocal Group, and their single "Cloudburst" became a hit on the jazz charts. The trio's innovative approach to vocal jazz garnered them widespread acclaim and recognition as one of the most influential vocal groups of their time.

5. Legacy and Influence: Lambert, Hendricks & Ross's impact on vocal jazz continues to be felt to this day. Their pioneering work in the vocalese style inspired countless singers and vocal groups to explore new possibilities in vocal improvisation and arrangement. Artists like Manhattan Transfer, New York Voices, and Take 6 have cited Lambert, Hendricks & Ross as a major influence on their own music. The trio's recordings remain cherished classics in the jazz canon, ensuring that their legacy will endure for generations to come.