Collector's Choice
1962
What Kind Of Fool Am I
About This Album
After scoring some significant notice on Sammy Belts the Best of Broadway (1962), Sammy Davis, Jr. (vocals) returns to the Great White Way for inspiration and material. Containing a dozen show tunes, What Kind of Fool Am I (1962) would go on to become one of Davis' most revered and highest-charting long-players during the 1960s. Under the direction of Marty Paich (arranger/conductor), Davis practically redefines himself as a decidedly hip and modern interpreter of American popular song. This in itself is notable, as rock & roll had all but relegated singers of his caliber to becoming dinosaurs. Nothing could be further from the truth, as many of the melodies gathered here remained essential entries in Davis' performance repertoire for the rest of his career. One particular case in point is the quartet of Anthony Newley/Leslie Bricusse selections from the play Stop the World I Want to Get Off (1961) -- which Davis would revive on Broadway nearly two decades later. "What Kind of Fool Am I"commences the effort and has been given suitable ornamental orchestration that Davis turns into his own minor masterpiece. The emotive vocals build from an understated plea into a powerful and virtually unforgettable crescendo.
Track List (try track 3)

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