Swingin' Singin' - Randy Van Horne

'S Wonderful

Swingin' Singin'
Randy Van Horne and His Swinging Chorus
RCA Victor LPM 1321
1957

From the back cover: Randy Van Horne, the leader of this swinging singing group, was born in 1924 in El Paso, Texas. His career as an arranger actually began in 1949 when he fronted "The Encores," a vocal quintet, which worked night clubs throughout the country, appeared on numerous TV shows and later traveled and recorded with Billy May. His dreams of a larger vocal group were realized when he formed an experimental choir comprised of volunteer singers, secretaries, musicians, writers, announcers and professional vocalists. Sixteen of the best singers from this group were rehearsed and made a demonstration record of "S' Wonderful, RCA Victor heard the record and as a result signed the group.

In regard to his arrangements of the selections in this album Randy van Horne says: "When I hear a song, I view it from two standpoints; that of a singer, and that of a musician. In an attempt to combine the two, I took musicians who sang, and wrote for them as though they were the brass and saxes of a big band." The results is some undoubtedly fine listening.

In addition to the excellent arrangements, this album makes for outstanding enjoyment because of the obvious delight and spirit with which the group sings. To use Randy's own words again: "If I had to have a premise, I'd say this" 'If it's fun to sing, it's fun to listen to!" We were happy doing this, and we sincerely hope it makes you happy listening to it." – Edwin Miller

Hucklebuck
Margie
In The Good Old Summertime
Sweet Sue, Just You
Sleepy Time Gal
Old Mill Stream
'S Wonderful
Squeeze Me
By The River Sainte Marie
Cheatin' On Me
Between The Devil And The Deep Blue Sea
My Blue Heaven