Just a quick PS:
Porgy and Bess is an Opera.
I loved Billy Stewarts R&B take one it. Even backed him in a couple shows back in the day. But his record never has been the best known - especially when realizing that the Opera is from the 20's.
Billy Holliday, Lena Horne, Ella Fitzgerald, Dorothy Dandridge, Sinatra, Brother Ray, Big Mama Thornton, Bessie Smith, etc. - The best of the jazz/blues singers.
But you'll be very surprized to hear it in the origianl opera context. First Soprano dipping into Contralto, and absolutely no relation to pop.
The Opera Porgy and Bess must be seen and experienced. As air must be breathed deeply, exhaled, held, and risking another.
Then enjoy Billy Stewart and Pearl to the max. I don't recall a bad version of that marvelous song in the hands of a believer.
The Rez,
. . . Bess You is My Woman Now
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