Warren Leuning played the first trumpet solo. You all have heard him thousands of times in the many movies he played for, literally hundreds, if not thousands. The second trumpet solo, not credited, was played by Jack Sheldon, who you have also heard many times without knowing it. He played "The Shadow of Your Smile" in the opening theme of the movie "The Sandpiper,'' and also sang as the voice of The Bill in "I'm Just a Bill" played for kids on Saturday mornings in the 1970's and 1980's in the "Schoolhouse Rock" series. I wish I knew who the rest of the band was, because I can tell you right now that along with Mel and Ken, these were all "the cream of the crop."
Here's an example of multi talents. Not only was Mel noted for excellent voice billed as the velvet fog. He was a good drummer. He did have an offer to play drums for the late great Harry James. He did play drums for the Chico Marx big band. Mel dug the hell out of Buddy Rich and Buddy in turn dug his singing. Also Mel was a proficient author and wrote books on Judy garland and also wrote a book called traps in honor of his friend Buddy Rich. Mel also appeared on the t v show. Night court. And so you see entertainers had many God given talents. The late great Mel torment was one of them
I'm just reading 'Traps' at the moment - a fantastic read, really well-written. And Mel always seems to have been just a really nice person as well as that amazing talent.
Dayam!! Full points, everyone! That was hot! Gotta say, one of the things that I most liked about Mel Torme was that, while he had this massive talent, he looked like an average guy. Kinda says something about not judging the book by its cover. Great singer, probably my favorite big band crooner, but also one hell of a fine drumer, author and actor. Just an amazingly gifted soul. Thanks for sharing those gifts with us Mel.
I just want to point out that Ken Peplowski was 28 in this performance, Torme was 63 at the time and during that solo you can tell Torme is just like "You gotta keep up now, son!" Amazing.
i don't think he was underrated in his time he was highly respected and sought after however In the 70's with the resurgence of jazz he was busy touring a lot in the 80's and 90's I saw him in the early 90's. Melvin Howard Tormé, best known as Mel Tormé and nicknamed The Velvet Fog, was an American musician, a singer of jazz standards. He was also a jazz composer and arranger, drummer, an actor in radio, film, and television, and the author of five books. Wikipedia
He is underrated now actually. He is a “no one” unless you know about him and he is phenomenal. I sing in some jazz ensembles in Paris and almost no one knows Mel Torme. So yes, underrated for sure.
It's a shame people today don't appreciate this music. My kids included. If it's from before they were born they think it's no good. But this kind of music is timeless.
This music gave birth for musicians today. Of course its nothing like the old days. I wish people paid homage to the late and greats of the musician world.
@@Kermy88 I'm only a few years younger than you and I too listen to everything especially the oldies (actually almost everything - I still can't stand rap, reggaeton, hiphop and some of the mainstream (21st century) pop music though).
Here on RUclips I have been able to see Mel Torme perform over a 40 year period or so and one thing I can say is that he truly enjoyed playing those drums.
Perhaps the most talented musician I have ever heard. I had the great good pleasure of meeting Mel through a mutual friend. He was as gracious and friendly as he was talented, That's a lot. I try to listen to his music as often as I can. I don't know if it is possible to wear out a cd, but I might be wearing out his cd with Cleo Laine. There's not a day goes by that I don't miss him. Since he left us, the entire world is a whole lot duller.
This is so exciting! Mel was one of the greatest ever jazz singers, and also a great drummer. His duet with Ken Plepowski on clarinet reminds me of Benny Goodman and Gene Krupa (Gene is my favourite jazz drummer). Sammy Davis Jr. and Fred Astaire were also world class drummers and multi-talented performers that excelled in singing and dancing.
Mel Torme' is the Finest jazz drummer I have ever heard! Every beat is articulated with precision. His drums are Well-tuned and the music is well balanced. You can hear every instrument clearly. You can hear and feel his drum playing. He also scored "The Christmas song, Chestnuts roasting" and co-wrote it. Also a Great Pianist, Guitarist, Singer, and Dancer. Mult-talented.
I was privileged to see him many years ago perform with our symphony. He showcased his many talents including a fabulous jazz drum set. He also conducted the orchestra. I am so happy we did that he was a legend before my time but loved by my parents.
This was a privilege. I have to assume that Marty Paich wrote this great arrangement. I have to assume that Mel Torme never slept, he simply practiced (everything he could play, including his voice), wrote songs, wrote arrangements, and acted.
Yes! Used to be a thing, especially with some trumpet players to wear tinted glasses. Besides the "cool look" I think it helped with the bright stage lighting. Go Jack!
Mel Torme has been one of my favorites since I was a kid and I only regret I never had a chance to play behind him. He's an incredible drummer in this session.
Torme was smooth with everything he did. I am particularly impressed with the large bright red tomb stone that graces his grave. It always reminds me of COTTON TAIL.
There is precedence in modern music where great singers seem to also be better than average drummers. Marvin Gaye, Teddy Pendergrass, Jeffrey Osborne, and Phil Collins immediately come to mind. Mr. Torme definitely fit the bill.
All of the musicians here are amazing. Mel is not just a good drummer, he is a GREAT drummer. He is so comfortable playing the drums. Even at his age he doesn't struggle at all. I only recently discovered what a talented musician he was.
GO MEL . . . I didn't know he could beat those drums as well Mr. Gene Krupa & Mr. Buddy Rich. WOW . . . I AM SO impressed! And, not to be undone by the drums, the man playing that clarinet is really swinging and hot, too! SYLVIA _ FL
There's Mel playing drums like an absolute monster, then there's Mel who had a voice like butter, then there's the fact that he co-wrote and arranged THE famous Christmas Song..That is enough to solidify him as one the best contemporary and jazz artists of all time..
Have seen multiple interviews of Torme where he states "'The Christmas Song' is not a song, it's an annuity!" Those annual royalty checks must have been nice.
Amazing technique for a guy who wasn't a full time drummer . he was on the bill when i attended the Newport jazz fest. in the mid 90's; but did not play due to a sudden health issue. R.I.P.
At one time Mel was married to a British actress named Jeanette Scott. Her mother was a well known actress in the UK with an acid wit. At one time the press were stirring it saying she did not like him staying at her house, to which she replied, " Are you mad.I get to hear him singing in my bath".
He was Buddy Rich's, the greatest drummer ever, best friend; they grew up together in Chicago. Torme got his first job in a jazz band as a drummer, aged 15 or so, and you can see the talent.
Ronnie Moore: Buddy Rich was born in 1917 in the Sheepshead area of Brooklyn, in New York City, and died on April 3 in 1987, according to journalist James Barron writing in The New York Times newspaper, so you are incorrect in your facts, sir, with all respect....
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
I'm a full time drummer. And I got to say, I love Mel enough to not be pissed off at how well he played the drums.
Ol' Mel was right at home on that drumkit and enjoying every minute of it...really enjoyed watching him play...
Mel Tormé, one of the most exceptional talents in jazz ever.
i'll second that
@@ColinOYoung
I'll third it
I m ok too
The man was Jazz. Also loved his guest visits on Night Court.
2:14
Oooh yes ! soooo great ! top of the top notch ever.
Warren Leuning played the first trumpet solo. You all have heard him thousands of times in the many movies he played for, literally hundreds, if not thousands. The second trumpet solo, not credited, was played by Jack Sheldon, who you have also heard many times without knowing it. He played "The Shadow of Your Smile" in the opening theme of the movie "The Sandpiper,'' and also sang as the voice of The Bill in "I'm Just a Bill" played for kids on Saturday mornings in the 1970's and 1980's in the "Schoolhouse Rock" series. I wish I knew who the rest of the band was, because I can tell you right now that along with Mel and Ken, these were all "the cream of the crop."
Here's an example of multi talents. Not only was Mel noted for excellent voice billed as the velvet fog. He was a good drummer. He did have an offer to play drums for the late great Harry James. He did play drums for the Chico Marx big band. Mel dug the hell out of Buddy Rich and Buddy in turn dug his singing. Also Mel was a proficient author and wrote books on Judy garland and also wrote a book called traps in honor of his friend Buddy Rich. Mel also appeared on the t v show. Night court. And so you see entertainers had many God given talents. The late great Mel torment was one of them
How about a great songwriter? He wrote "the Christmas Song" ( chestnuts roasting on an open fire), "Born to Be Blue" and other great tunes.
I'm just reading 'Traps' at the moment - a fantastic read, really well-written. And Mel always seems to have been just a really nice person as well as that amazing talent.
I knew he sang for Chico, didn't know he played drums for him as well
Mel Torment was a pseudonym John Lennon used at one time as a joke. He probably was auto corrected to torment by his phone in this case. lol
Sterling Pound Auto correct
Somewhere out there Harry Anderson is shedding a tear.
Mell was great on drums, and that clarinet solo was off the charts!
Wow!
Dayam!! Full points, everyone! That was hot! Gotta say, one of the things that I most liked about Mel Torme was that, while he had this massive talent, he looked like an average guy. Kinda says something about not judging the book by its cover. Great singer, probably my favorite big band crooner, but also one hell of a fine drumer, author and actor. Just an amazingly gifted soul. Thanks for sharing those gifts with us Mel.
I just want to point out that Ken Peplowski was 28 in this performance, Torme was 63 at the time and during that solo you can tell Torme is just like "You gotta keep up now, son!" Amazing.
And now Ken Peplowski is 63 and still playing!
stop making me feel bad :(
Mel was a musical prodigy….could excel at any instrument…and in any vocal style!
Mel may be the most underrated musician of ALL time...
i don't think he was underrated in his time he was highly respected and sought after however In the 70's with the resurgence of jazz he was busy touring a lot in the 80's and 90's I saw him in the early 90's. Melvin Howard Tormé, best known as Mel Tormé and nicknamed The Velvet Fog, was an American musician, a singer of jazz standards. He was also a jazz composer and arranger, drummer, an actor in radio, film, and television, and the author of five books. Wikipedia
He is underrated now actually. He is a “no one” unless you know about him and he is phenomenal. I sing in some jazz ensembles in Paris and almost no one knows Mel Torme. So yes, underrated for sure.
Torme, just insanely talented, wow.
Torme continues to amaze. Might I add, the trumpet player at 1:58 seriously has got the sauce!!
I think that is Jack Sheldon.
Wonderful music. The clarinet and drum work remind me of Goodman and Krupa on Sing, Sing, Sing. This is exceptional.
Ah, yes! I was trying to think what it reminded me of, and that's it!
Wow I knew he played drums but never saw him. He doesn't just play a little drums too, he kills it.
Yes; I saw him play like this on the Jerry Lewis Telethon, circa 1983.
@@boomer3150 when your friends with Buddy and you say you can play. You Better Play'!
Mel was a Beast !
@@borgullet3376 Agreed!😀😀
The clarinet solo to end all clarinet solos....AWESOME!
He did it all, big band jazz style, be-bop, modal, Avant garde, modern and contemporary all in 64 bars.
Any idea who that is playing clarinet? It kind of looks like Jack Montrose but I can't be sure, and I thought Jack played the tenor sax exclusively.
Ken Peplowsky
@@r.l.kerney6095 He says at the end of the video
It's a shame people today don't appreciate this music. My kids included. If it's from before they were born they think it's no good. But this kind of music is timeless.
In the music scene, jazz is well appreciated by people my age (20 somewhat).
This music gave birth for musicians today. Of course its nothing like the old days. I wish people paid homage to the late and greats of the musician world.
I'm 32 and listen to EVERYTHING. every genre. And I love going back and listening to oldies and jazz. It's so entertaining.
@@Kermy88 I'm only a few years younger than you and I too listen to everything especially the oldies (actually almost everything - I still can't stand rap, reggaeton, hiphop and some of the mainstream (21st century) pop music though).
people today do not appreciate anything. they are to busy looking down at their phones. the real world is passing them by. shame on them
Had no idea Mel Torme played drums. What a delight to discover this part of his talent. New appreciation for his overall contribution to jazz.
Wow! He can drive a band and he is so relaxed.
I was just thinking the same thing . . . drums are the heartbeat of a band, but given your ID I suspect you know that far better than I.
Here on RUclips I have been able to see Mel Torme perform over a 40 year period or so and one thing I can say is that he truly enjoyed playing those drums.
I saw Mel Torme when he performed in London, England, in the 1950s on the back of his LP At The Crescendo. Greatest concert I ever attended.
Perhaps the most talented musician I have ever heard. I had the great good pleasure of meeting Mel through a mutual friend. He was as gracious and friendly as he was talented, That's a lot. I try to listen to his music as often as I can. I don't know if it is possible to wear out a cd, but I might be wearing out his cd with Cleo Laine. There's not a day goes by that I don't miss him. Since he left us, the entire world is a whole lot duller.
He looks so at home behind the set...
I forgot what a great drummer he was.
I had this album years ago. It’s still one of my faves. The old Velvet Fog really knew how to bring it!
Amazing timing had Mister Torme and a great composer of songs
Been a fan of Mel for years but only today learned he played drums and piano too! Good grief!
From the Generation that had Talent & Class.
Well said!
This is so exciting! Mel was one of the greatest ever jazz singers, and also a great drummer. His duet with Ken Plepowski on clarinet reminds me of Benny Goodman and Gene Krupa (Gene is my favourite jazz drummer). Sammy Davis Jr. and Fred Astaire were also world class drummers and multi-talented performers that excelled in singing and dancing.
Those Gentlemen, had " Time " ! ;)
David Whyberd I did not know Fred Astair played the drums, interesting.
Who doesn’t love Gene Krupa
Mel Torme owned Gene Krupa's drum kit from the 1938 Carnegie Hall Benny Goodman concert.
@@tomkelly4336 Torme was only 13 at the time.
he was good enough on the instrument that both Woody Herman and Stan Kenton offered him the drum chair.
Torme could do it all!
A true professional and talent, music was really good back in the day.
I've just discovered what a musical genius Mel Torme was!! His singing was INCREDIBLE....and he could play drums at the highest level too! Amazing.
Amazing songwriter and arranger, too.
Such a talented man. Hope today's generation occasionally discover him. Watch his 1981 live concert in Japan (on computer!). It will blow your mind.
What an incredible talent! And like all truly gifted artists he makes it look so easy!
I was standing in the lobby of the Pfister Hotel in MIlwaukee and Mel Torme and Debbie Reynolds come walking in - - - way back when.
I'm pretty much blown away! Who'd a thought? Mel a drummer? I never knew. And Peplowski on tenor & clarinet, sensational! Thanks for this post!
Mel Torme, a true legend.
Mel Torme' is the Finest jazz drummer I have ever heard! Every beat is articulated with precision. His drums are Well-tuned and the music is well balanced. You can hear every instrument clearly. You can hear and feel his drum playing. He also scored "The Christmas song, Chestnuts roasting" and co-wrote it. Also a Great Pianist, Guitarist, Singer, and Dancer. Mult-talented.
agreed!!!!!!
Thanks Ariel!!
+MICHAEL DAVIS And he's obviously enjoying every second of it !
Yes, Thomas that make others enjoy it too. I'm a drummer and guitarist. Thanks!
That was so damn good, I almost began to like clarinet. I wish I could play and swing on drums that well.
I was privileged to see him many years ago perform with our symphony. He showcased his many talents including a fabulous jazz drum set. He also conducted the orchestra. I am so happy we did that he was a legend before my time but loved by my parents.
This was a privilege.
I have to assume that Marty Paich wrote this great arrangement.
I have to assume that Mel Torme never slept, he simply practiced (everything he could play, including his voice), wrote songs, wrote arrangements, and acted.
Fantastic! Real musicians, pretty much sadly missed these days.
Fabulous band!!!
you can tell that he enjoyed the hell out of being a performer
he is firing accents at those drum rudiments. they call is sticking.
@@jodyguilbeaux8225 English please?
For anyone who didn't recognized him in his tinted glasses that was Jack Sheldon who played the second trumpet solo while standing in front of Mel.
Yes! Used to be a thing, especially with some trumpet players to wear tinted glasses. Besides the "cool look" I think it helped with the bright stage lighting. Go Jack!
Made my day!!! Wonderful --- sheer bliss - ultima thule
Amazing. Respect Mr. Mel Torme❤
Mel Torme has been one of my favorites since I was a kid and I only regret I never had a chance to play behind him. He's an incredible drummer in this session.
That blew me away! Had no idea he was a GREAT DRUMMER!
Thanks for sharing!!!
so much talent in those hands and voice
Awesome ...hot number Mel ...Great drummer and great singer....all musicians here , incredible talent ....❤️
Mr Torme, what a talented man.
Torme was smooth with everything he did. I am particularly impressed with the large bright red tomb stone that graces his grave. It always reminds me of COTTON TAIL.
This is a take-off on Benny Goodman's Sing Sing Sing and absolutely incredible.
Amazing to see Torme' on drums!
I had no idea! Wow great jass singer and Drummer!
WOW!!! What a talented man!!! AWESOME Mel !!!
There is precedence in modern music where great singers seem to also be better than average drummers. Marvin Gaye, Teddy Pendergrass, Jeffrey Osborne, and Phil Collins immediately come to mind. Mr. Torme definitely fit the bill.
And don't forget Sammy Davis and Stevie Wonder
Karen Carpenter as well!
Its because we start on drums then realize the singer doesn't have to carry anything. It's not like singing is as hard as learning an instrument.
Here's where his scat rithm comes from. Master of Jazz and more!
I am thoroughly enjoying this song.
I never knew Mel Torme was a drummer.
wow , i'm blown away by all this talent..
Blooming fantastic.😘🥁🌻
Mel doesn't merely ""play"" the drums..he is in COMMAND of the drum solo's! And the claro player is sublime...That High note!!!
Mel was amazing. I love watching him perform with my idol, Buddy Rich.
All of the musicians here are amazing. Mel is not just a good drummer, he is a GREAT drummer. He is so comfortable playing the drums. Even at his age he doesn't struggle at all. I only recently discovered what a talented musician he was.
Hahaha I just looked this video up after seeing your comment on the jerry lewis buddy rich video.
Now I know why Buddy Rich left Mel Torme instruct him as to what timing play the song in, (a different video),. Thanks for uploading this
Mel and that clarinet player tho.
WOW!!!!!
Suprice! Mel Torme, is a very good drummer! Fasntastic!
His old buddy, Buddy, taught him well.
GO MEL . . . I didn't know he could beat those drums as well Mr. Gene Krupa & Mr. Buddy Rich. WOW . . . I AM SO impressed!
And, not to be undone by the drums, the man playing that clarinet is really swinging and hot, too! SYLVIA _ FL
There's Mel playing drums like an absolute monster, then there's Mel who had a voice like butter, then there's the fact that he co-wrote and arranged THE famous Christmas Song..That is enough to solidify him as one the best contemporary and jazz artists of all time..
Have seen multiple interviews of Torme where he states "'The Christmas Song' is not a song, it's an annuity!" Those annual royalty checks must have been nice.
Such swing, absolutely amazing fluidity !
Thx so much for this brilliant performance, Mel!!!!!
So awesome! Thanks for sharing - what a talent (drummer, singer, dancer, the list goes on and on)
Thanks for posting this video, it's awesome.
Like Sammy Davis Junior, Mel Torme could pretty much do it all. One of the absolute masters.
Sammy was good, but Mel was in another league. Much better vocalist and drummer. He also co-wrote and arranged the Christmas Song.
Mel can swing and kick a big band. Outstanding!
Pure class and showmanship displayed by the one and only, "Velvet Fog." Bravo Mel!
He may have had a bit of an ego but hey that is what perfection is all about and he was PERFECTION ! Miss the perfection !
Brilliant
Torme playing Krupa style under the amazing clarinet solo - WOW! ❤️
Ab so lute lee marvellous. Best clarinet ever. Loved it.
Man, great stuff! Thanks for posting.
Mel was a great swing drummer. He didn't have Buddy's chops, but he had that Krupa style down.
Amazing technique for a guy who wasn't a full time drummer . he was on the bill when i attended the Newport jazz fest. in the mid 90's; but did not play due to a sudden health issue. R.I.P.
Mel is truly one of the greats!
Amazing !!!!!!!!
At one time Mel was married to a British actress named Jeanette Scott. Her mother was a well known actress in the UK with an acid wit. At one time the press were stirring it saying she did not like him staying at her house, to which she replied, " Are you mad.I get to hear him singing in my bath".
Excellent!
Mels enjoying the hell out of that clarinet solo...awesome
One of Greatest!
A shame that young folks don't even know Mel. A half century of brilliance gone for ever.
NEVER ! Never gone forever..
This is incredible
He was Buddy Rich's, the greatest drummer ever, best friend; they grew up together in Chicago. Torme got his first job in a jazz band as a drummer, aged 15 or so, and you can see the talent.
Rich is from Brooklyn
Ronnie Moore Buddy Rich is from Brooklyn not Chicago.
Ronnie Moore: Buddy Rich was born in 1917 in the Sheepshead area of Brooklyn, in New York City, and died on April 3 in 1987, according to journalist James Barron writing in The New York Times newspaper, so you are incorrect in your facts, sir, with all respect....
I just finished reading his autobiography, “It Wasn’t *All* Velvet.” Really good-interesting and well written!
Love Mel!
I hope I'm playing drums half as well at 63! (Of course, I probably should have started by now....)
Mel shares Buddy's iron-fisted command of tempo.
That`s the first thing I thought when I started watching.
I just thought this to.
I was definitely focusing on that powerful snare.
Simplemente...geniales..!!
I'm loving this ! ! !