Future project on Mosaic

Mosaic Selects Mosaic Select: Johnny Mercer

In this Mosaic Select, we present 78 Capitol tracks from the label’s birth in 1942 to 1947, that showcase the more jazz tinged efforts of Johnny Mercer. Singing many of his own tunes, Mercer is backed by bands led by Paul Whiteman with Jack Teagarden, Wingy Manone, Eddie Miller, Billy Butterfield, Bobby Sherwood, Benny Goodman, the King Cole Trio and Paul Weston’s studio orchestra that boasted the cream of L.A.’s jazz musicians. A number of unissued sides are included plus two Capitol transcription sessions that were made for radio use only. As a special addition to this set we’ve asked Margaret Whiting to share her thoughts and memories of working with Mercer.