album · April 14, 1954

Chet Baker & Strings

Chet Baker

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Columbia/LegacySee this day

This 1954 album features Baker's trumpet and vocals backed by a string orchestra, a departure from his earlier, more sparsely arranged work. The arrangements, by Johnny Mandel, create a lush backdrop for Baker's understated performances.

• This album was recorded in Los Angeles between December 1953 and January 1954.
• It was Baker's first album for Columbia Records.
• The album reached number 5 on Billboard's Jazz Albums chart.

Chet Baker was a trumpeter and vocalist known for his cool, laid-back West Coast jazz style. In 1954, Baker was transitioning from sideman work to leading his own ensembles and gaining wider recognition.