Check out these new and used Johnny Hartman vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Johnny Hartman vinyl collection with the essential albums I Just Dropped By To Say Hello, And I Thought About You and Sings Just You, Just Me. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from jazz musicians.

Johnny Hartman: An Ode to Timeless Jazz Elegance

Unveiling the Enigmatic Artist

Johnny Hartman Vinyl stands as a testament to the enduring charm of jazz, a genre that has the power to transcend eras and captivate audiences across generations. Born on July 3, 1923, in Chicago, Johnny Hartman’s velvety baritone voice set him apart in the realm of jazz, earning him a place among the genre’s elite. As we delve into the vinyl discography of this enigmatic artist, we unravel a musical journey that echoes with sophistication and emotional depth. Here are the Johnny Hartman Tracks and Albums.

The Velvet Voice: Johnny Hartman’s Musical Odyssey

Early Years and Influences

Hartman’s early exposure to music was influenced by the rich jazz culture of Chicago in the 1930s and 40s. As a young man, he found inspiration in the works of jazz giants like Nat King Cole, Billy Eckstine, and Joe Williams. These formative years laid the groundwork for his distinctive vocal style, a fusion of smooth phrasing and impeccable control.

Blossoming Career

Johnny Hartman’s career blossomed in the 1950s when he began performing with renowned jazz orchestras, including those led by Earl Hines and Dizzy Gillespie. His smooth vocal delivery and ability to interpret lyrics with profound emotion caught the attention of audiences and fellow musicians alike. However, it was his collaboration with the legendary John Coltrane that would etch his name in the annals of jazz history.

The Timeless Collaboration: John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman

“John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman” (1963)

The eponymous album, “John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman,” is a cornerstone in both artists’ discographies. Released in 1963, this collaboration between the virtuoso saxophonist and the velvety crooner is an exemplar of jazz synergy. The album features timeless classics such as “Lush Life” and “My One and Only Love,” showcasing the perfect marriage of Coltrane’s expressive saxophone and Hartman’s soul-stirring vocals.

Impact and Legacy

The impact of “John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman” resonates through the years, influencing subsequent generations of jazz musicians. The album’s profound emotional depth and the chemistry between the artists set a standard for collaborative excellence in the jazz genre.

Johnny Hartman’s Solo Vinyl Discography

“I Just Dropped By to Say Hello” (1964)

Hartman’s solo album, “I Just Dropped By to Say Hello,” further solidified his status as a premier jazz vocalist. The album features a mix of jazz standards and original compositions, all delivered with Hartman’s signature elegance. Tracks like “Charade” and “Stairway to the Stars” showcase his ability to infuse classic tunes with a unique, emotive touch.

“Once in Every Life” (1980)

Released in the twilight of Hartman’s career, “Once in Every Life” stands as a testament to his enduring artistry. The album features lush orchestral arrangements and highlights his interpretative prowess on tracks like “Easy Living” and “Wave.” Despite being released posthumously, this album serves as a poignant reminder of Hartman’s contribution to the jazz canon.

Similar Bands: Navigating the Jazz Landscape

Nat King Cole Trio

Nat King Cole’s influence on Johnny Hartman’s early years is evident in the smooth, mellow quality of Hartman’s voice. The Nat King Cole Trio, known for their elegant arrangements and Cole’s velvety vocals, shares a musical kinship with Hartman’s style.

Billy Eckstine Orchestra

As a member of the Billy Eckstine Orchestra, Hartman honed his skills and absorbed the rich musical milieu of big band jazz. The orchestra’s bold arrangements and Eckstine’s commanding presence left an indelible mark on Hartman’s artistic sensibilities.

Joe Williams

Joe Williams, another influential figure in Hartman’s formative years, brought a bluesy edge to jazz vocals. Hartman’s ability to convey deep emotions through his voice reflects a similar emotional depth found in Williams’ work.

The Enduring Legacy: Influence on Contemporary Artists

Johnny Hartman’s influence extends beyond his contemporaries, reaching into the realms of contemporary jazz and related genres. Artists inspired by his timeless style include:

Kurt Elling

Kurt Elling, a Grammy-winning jazz vocalist, cites Johnny Hartman as a major influence. Elling’s rich baritone and emotive delivery echo the legacy of Hartman, demonstrating the enduring impact of the velvet voice on the evolution of jazz.

Gregory Porter

Gregory Porter, known for his soulful approach to jazz, draws inspiration from the emotional resonance that defined Hartman’s music. Porter’s ability to blend classic jazz with modern sensibilities pays homage to the timeless elegance of Hartman’s legacy.

In Closing

As we immerse ourselves in the vinyl recordings of Johnny Hartman, we find a captivating journey through the golden era of jazz. His collaboration with John Coltrane remains a beacon of artistic excellence, while his solo works stand as a testament to his enduring contribution to the genre. In exploring Hartman’s musical legacy, we discover not only a remarkable artist but also a source of inspiration for generations of jazz enthusiasts, proving that the allure of the velvet voice is truly timeless.