Listening to some compilation of songs composed by Frank Loesser, tonight I came across very individual, expressive and powerful, yet nice and convincing voice and piano playing of Nellie Lutcher. She was recorded on session with Ulysses Livingston (guit.), Billy Hadnott (bass) and great Lester's brother Lee at the drums - session that took place in Hollywood, October 23, 1947.

So, who was (or, hopefully, still is) Nellie Lutcher?
With what band she sung, and did she recorded after or before this date?

She reminds me of - not so convincing and melted in pop song mostly - Nina Simon...

This link will give you some information. I believe she is still among the living--a wonderful artist who made many fine recordings for Capitol.

Many thanks Chris.
"The Lady's In Love With You" form 1947. was the title that opened my eyes for Nellie.

I'm a big fan of Nellie Lutcher. I have the Bear Family box and really think she's a wonderful singer, player, writer. . .you name it!

Like Jazzbo, I too am a very big fan of Nellie Lutcher.. and so was my mother .. that is where I first heard her music. She is close to being the female equivalent of Fats Waller.. and she plays a very mean piano. Her music is incredibly "infectious" and whenever I put on some Nellie Lutcher I can't help but wanna shake the ol' body.


Which reminds me, now that I no longer own any vinyl, I need to get a few Lutcher CDs..

She also had a highly individual piano and vocal style. It is an approach that I have never heard anyone attempt to emulate. Also, her rhythm sections were exceptional, including (on her 1947-49 Capitol sides):

• Billy Hadnott
• Lee Young
• Nappy Lamare
• Ulysses Livingstone
• Irving Ashby
• Sid Catlett
• Truck Parham
• John Collins

I'm probably the only one here to have heard John Collins and Truck Parham play together.

Count me as a fan, too. I have a compilation of her stuff titled "Real Gone Gal" and I don't think there's a bad cut on it. She's great!