Oscar Peterson & The Singers Unlimited

Biography

Oscar Peterson & The Singers Unlimited is not a permanent band but a celebrated collaboration between the legendary Canadian jazz pianist Oscar Peterson and the innovative American vocal group The Singers Unlimited. Oscar Peterson, born in Montreal in 1925, was renowned for his extraordinary piano technique and expressive jazz interpretations, rising to international prominence in the 1950s and 60s. By the early 1970s, Peterson was leading a trio with bassist George Mraz and drummer Louis Hayes, continuing his tradition of virtuosic ensemble playing.

The Singers Unlimited, formed in Chicago in 1971 by Gene Puerling, began as a studio group specializing in commercial jingles before evolving into a pioneering vocal jazz quartet. The group comprised Gene Puerling (baritone and arranger), Bonnie Herman (lead soprano), Don Shelton (tenor), and Len Dresslar (bass). Their sophisticated harmonies and innovative use of multi-tracking technology set new standards in vocal jazz. On Peterson’s recommendation, The Singers Unlimited signed with MPS Records in Germany, leading to their first major album collaboration, 'In Tune' (1971), which showcased the seamless blend of Peterson's trio and the group's lush vocal arrangements.

Their collaboration is celebrated for its technical brilliance and musical synergy, influencing generations of jazz musicians and vocal groups. The 'In Tune' album remains a landmark in vocal jazz, exemplifying the creative possibilities when master instrumentalists and vocal innovators unite.

Fun Facts

• The Singers Unlimited originally formed to record commercial jingles before being persuaded to make albums.
• Oscar Peterson personally recommended The Singers Unlimited to MPS Records, leading to their first major recording contract.
• Gene Puerling's vocal arrangements for The Singers Unlimited utilized advanced multi-tracking techniques, creating a signature rich and layered sound.
• The 'In Tune' album was recorded in Germany's Black Forest at the MPS studio, renowned for its cutting-edge recording technology.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Daniel Peterson - Oscar Peterson's father, an amateur trumpeter and pianist, was one of his first music teachers. (Early piano training) [1930s]
• Daisy Peterson Sweeney - Oscar Peterson's sister, taught him classical piano and instilled rigorous practice habits. (Classical etudes and technique) [1930s-1940s]

Key Collaborators

• Gene Puerling - Leader and arranger for The Singers Unlimited, collaborated with Peterson on 'In Tune'. (In Tune (1971)) [1971]
• Bonnie Herman - Lead soprano of The Singers Unlimited, featured on 'In Tune'. (In Tune (1971)) [1971]
• Don Shelton - Tenor of The Singers Unlimited, previously worked with Puerling in The Hi-Lo's. (In Tune (1971)) [1971]
• Len Dresslar - Bass vocalist of The Singers Unlimited, participated in the 'In Tune' album. (In Tune (1971)) [1971]
• George Mraz - Bassist in the Oscar Peterson Trio during the collaboration. (In Tune (1971)) [1971]
• Louis Hayes - Drummer in the Oscar Peterson Trio during the collaboration. (In Tune (1971)) [1971]

Artists Influenced

• Take 6 - Cited The Singers Unlimited and Gene Puerling's arrangements as major influences on their vocal style. (Take 6 (debut album), subsequent a cappella works) [1980s-present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Michelle (The Complete a Capella Sessions)
2. Sesame Street - Remastered (In Tune (Remastered Anniversary Edition))
3. Children's Game - Remastered (In Tune (Remastered Anniversary Edition))
4. The Shadow of Your Smile - Remastered (In Tune (Remastered Anniversary Edition))
5. Clair (The Complete a Capella Sessions)
6. Joy to the World (Christmas)
7. Caroling, Caroling (Christmas)
8. We've Only Just Begun (Four of Us)
9. A Child Is Born - Remastered (In Tune (Remastered Anniversary Edition))
10. Nature Boy (The Complete a Capella Sessions)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia