It's a Man's World (Sarah Vaughan album)

It's a Man's World is a studio album by American jazz vocalist Sarah Vaughan, released in 1967 on Mercury Records. The album showcases Vaughan's interpretation of popular songs from the mid-1960s, many of which were originally performed by male artists. The title itself is a play on the James Brown song "It's a Man's Man's Man's World," reflecting the album's theme of a female perspective on male-dominated themes.

The tracklist features a mix of pop and soul songs, including "Alfie" (made famous by Cilla Black), "The World Is Mine" (originally by Sammy Davis Jr.), and "Sunny" (originally by Bobby Hebb). Vaughan's renditions often incorporate her signature jazz phrasing, improvisational scat singing, and wide vocal range, transforming these popular tunes into uniquely Vaughan performances.

The album was arranged and conducted by Bob James, whose arrangements blend orchestral elements with jazz instrumentation, providing a lush and sophisticated backdrop for Vaughan's vocals. While not considered one of Vaughan's most groundbreaking or critically acclaimed albums, It's a Man's World remains a notable entry in her discography, demonstrating her versatility and ability to interpret a wide range of material. It offers a glimpse into the popular music of the era through the lens of a jazz icon, and highlights the continuing evolution of her distinctive vocal style.