"Starring Sammy Davis, Jr." marks the debut studio album by the legendary Sammy Davis Jr., recorded in 1954 and released in January 1955 under the Decca Records label. This captivating collection of 11 tracks offers a blend of big band, swing music, adult standards, and vocal jazz, showcasing Davis Jr.'s remarkable versatility and charisma. The album feels like a live night-club performance, complete with a set of impressions, making it an immersive experience.
The tracklist includes timeless classics such as "Hey There," "Because Of You," and "My Funny Valentine," as well as lesser-known gems like "Stan' Up An' Fight" and "Spoken For." The album's standout tracks, "Hey There" and "Because Of You," were previously released as singles, hinting at the star power that Davis Jr. was set to unleash.
"Starring Sammy Davis, Jr." was a commercial success, reaching the #1 spot on the Billboard charts by June 1955. The album's success paved the way for Davis Jr.'s illustrious career, with subsequent releases like "Just for Lovers" and "Here's Lookin' at You" following in its footsteps. This album is a testament to Davis Jr.'s enduring appeal and his ability to captivate audiences with his unique blend of vocal prowess and showmanship.