Sophisticated Lady (Ella Fitzgerald and Joe Pass album)
Sophisticated Lady is a 1975 studio album by jazz vocalist Ella Fitzgerald and jazz guitarist Joe Pass. It is the second of four albums the duo recorded together, following 1973's Take Love Easy.
The album showcases a collection of jazz standards and popular songs, featuring Fitzgerald's vocals accompanied solely by Pass's guitar. This intimate setting highlights the subtleties of both artists' talents, creating a refined and elegant listening experience.
The repertoire includes classic tunes such as the title track "Sophisticated Lady" (Duke Ellington), "More Than You Know," "Stars Fell on Alabama," and "I Let a Song Go Out of My Heart." The arrangements are typically sparse and understated, allowing Fitzgerald's vocal interpretations and Pass's guitar virtuosity to take center stage. The album is known for its relaxed and conversational mood.
Sophisticated Lady was released by Pablo Records. It is considered a key recording in both Fitzgerald's and Pass's discographies, and a notable example of the duo format in jazz. The album has been praised for its musicality, intimacy, and the seamless interaction between the two artists.