Introduction to "I Feel So Spanish!"
"I Feel So Spanish!" is a distinctive album released in 1961 by American singer Eydie Gorme, who was already a dominant figure in the music industry with her partner and musical partner Steve Lawrence at the time. The album showcases Gorme's love and affinity for Spanish and Latin music and includes her unique interpretations of popular Spanish tunes. This record set her apart from other artists in the United States, as Gorme not just accepted Spanish music but handled to break through language barriers within the American market and worldwide.
Background and Recording
Born Edith Gormezano in the Bronx, New York, in 1928 to Sephardic Jewish parents of Turkish and Spanish descent, Eydie Gorme grew up in a multi-cultural environment. She was exposed to various type of music, and her significant talent for singing led her to sign up with the Tex Beneke Orchestra and later work as a big band singer. Gorme's capability to sing in several languages, consisting of Spanish, helped her foster an unfaltering career that surpassed the borders of the United States.
The idea for "I Feel So Spanish!" was to showcase Eydie's love for Spanish music and her company grasp of the language. Working closely with composer and arranger Don Costa, the album was recorded with an orchestra that featured many gifted musicians, consisting of renowned percussionist Candido Camero and bassist George Duvivier. These musicians supplied the perfect backdrop for Gorme's dynamic efficiencies, resulting in an abundant, expressive, and genuine Spanish sound.
Tracklist and Reception
"I Feel So Spanish!" consists of 12 tracks, each with its unique musical taste. The album opens with the vibrant "Granada", followed by the enthusiastic "Si Vuelves Tu" and "La Puerta". Other noteworthy tracks consist of "Cuando Vuelva a Tu Lado", which would later on become popular in the English language as "What a Diff'rence a Day Made", and "Besame Mucho", a traditional Mexican bolero.
The album got positive responses from music critics and audiences alike. Gorme's ability to provide an authentic and psychological performance in Spanish, regardless of not being a native speaker, was particularly applauded. Her performances stayed respectful to the original compositions while likewise adding her personal touch, making sure that "I Feel So Spanish!" would be kept in mind as a classic in both the Latin and American music worlds.
With her undeniable skill and Spanish-flavored album, Eydie Gorme also managed to break down barriers in a market that primarily catered to English-speaking audiences. As an outcome, "I Feel So Spanish!" is not just a testament to her musical expertise however likewise a symbol of inclusivity and cultural exchange between genres, languages, and artists.
Legacy and Impact
"I Feel So Spanish!" set the stage for Eydie Gorme's successful career in Latin music, resulting in a number of more albums and cooperations with well-known Latin artists, such as Trio Los Panchos. Their partnership led to the traditional album "Amor" and earned Gorme the label "La Novia de México" (Mexico's Sweetheart). Ultimately, Gorme's love affair with Spanish and Latin music led the way for other singers and artists who would follow in her footsteps and crossover into diverse genres and cultures.
In conclusion, "I Feel So Spanish!" is an album that showcases Eydie Gorme's linguistic and musical versatility, authenticity, and appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Spanish music. With its unforgettable interpretations of traditional songs, combined with Gorme's unique vocal expertise, the album stays an ageless treasure in the record of Latin and American music history.
Artist: Eydie Gorme
Eydie Gorme, an iconic American singer and actress known for her versatile vocal style, and her husband-wife duo with Steve Lawrence.
More about Eydie Gorme