{"title":"Chet Baker","description":"\u003ch2\u003eAbout Chet Baker\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eChesney Henry Baker Jr. was born in Yale, Oklahoma on December 23, 1929 and raised in California. He gained early recognition playing with Charlie Parker and as a member of the Gerry Mulligan Quartet (1952-1953). His own quartet and vocal recordings on Pacific Jazz in 1953-1954 - including Chet Baker Sings (1954) - made him a major figure in West Coast cool jazz and a cultural icon of the era. He struggled with heroin addiction across decades and lived in Europe for extended periods. He died after falling from a hotel window in Amsterdam on May 13, 1988 at age 58. He recorded prolifically across multiple labels in Europe and the U.S. throughout the 1970s and 1980s.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eSound and style\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eChet Baker's trumpet style is foundational to West Coast cool jazz - lyrical, melodic, restrained, with a soft tonal approach distinct from the more aggressive bebop trumpet traditions. His vocal recordings, with a soft tenor voice frequently performed in the same restrained register as his trumpet, established a parallel vocal jazz body of work. His later catalog is widely regarded as having matured into deeper emotional and harmonic territory while retaining his characteristic lyrical sensibility.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eDiscography highlights\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGerry Mulligan Quartet (1952, Pacific Jazz) - as sideman\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChet Baker Sings (1954, Pacific Jazz)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChet Baker \u0026amp; Crew (1956, Pacific Jazz)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChet (1959, Riverside)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChet Baker in New York (1958, Riverside)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBaker's Holiday (1965, Limelight)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShe Was Too Good to Me (1974, CTI)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou Can't Go Home Again (1977, A\u0026amp;M\/Horizon)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLive at Nick's (1978, Criss Cross)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChet Baker in Tokyo (1987, King)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFor collectors\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal Pacific Jazz pressings of Chet Baker Sings and the 1950s catalog are widely collected. Multiple audiophile reissue programs (Mosaic, Mobile Fidelity, Acoustic Sounds) have issued his catalog. The 1980s European recordings have been extensively reissued through Criss Cross and similar specialty labels.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhere to start\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eListeners new to Chet Baker typically start with Chet Baker Sings (1954) or Chet (1959). \u003cspan class=\"related-collections\"\u003eExplore more: \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/jazz-vinyl-records\"\u003eJazz\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"chet-baker-sings-vinyl-180g-spanish-import","title":"Sings LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eBoth his trumpet and his voice seem to be extensions of the same musical personality, and once you've become familiar with both facets of Baker, you expect to hear them both.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48540761686199,"sku":"210000093042","price":19.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/71upkqnrc4l-uf350350-ql50.jpg?v=1781154173"},{"product_id":"chet-baker-my-funny-valentine-vinyl","title":"My Funny Valentine LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis set combines some fiery instrumentals along with some of Chet Baker's best vocals- among them the Rodgers \u0026amp; Hart song \"My Funny Valentine\", which would become a theme song for Baker over the course of his extended career.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48540848423095,"sku":"210000035244","price":27.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/myfunnyvalentine.jpg?v=1781154480"},{"product_id":"chet-baker-chet-vinyl","title":"Chet LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eFew musicians have embodied the romantic, and ultimately tragic, jazz figure as totally as Chesney \"Chet\" Baker. Chet is Chet Baker's classic 1959 Riverside album featuring jazz legends Bill Evans, Kenny Burrell, Herbie Mann and Pepper Adams.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48540899737783,"sku":"210000057107","price":29.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/chet-stereo.jpg?v=1781154652"},{"product_id":"chet-baker-chet-baker-quartet-vol-2-in-paris-vol-2-vinyl","title":"Chet Baker Quartet Vol.2 (In Paris Vol.2) LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eChet leads his quartet with Jimmy Bond (the only one left from his original accompanying trio), young French pianist Gerard Gustin and Swedish drummer Nils-Bertil Dahlander.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48540950724791,"sku":"210000091888","price":32.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/baker.jpg?v=1781154834"},{"product_id":"chet-baker-chet-baker-sings-vinyl-3069","title":"Chet Baker Sings LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eShips - 7\/17\/2026 - Chet Baker Sings - intimate 1954; 56 vocal set, reissued in Blue Note's Essentials series on 140g vinyl. Tender trumpet and fragile, hushed vocals anchor standards like \"My Funny Valentine.\"\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48757805449399,"sku":"210000106493","price":19.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/chetbakersingsessentialserieslp.png?v=1782413400"},{"product_id":"chet-baker-chet-baker-sings-plays-vinyl-tone-poet","title":"Chet Baker Sings \u0026 Plays LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eExperience the unmistakable sound of Chet Baker with \"Chet Baker Sings \u0026amp; Plays LP\" from the Tone Poet series. This vinyl captures Baker's exquisite trumpet playing alongside his beautiful vocals, featuring classics like \"Let's Get Lost\". Pressed on 180g vinyl and housed in a deluxe jacket, this edition is a testament to Baker's timeless artistry and a must-have for jazz lovers.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48772749852855,"sku":"210000078615","price":42.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4185058-2963610.jpg?v=1782827806"},{"product_id":"chet-baker-the-best-of-180g-color-vinyl","title":"The Best of... LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eImmerse yourself in the smooth sounds of Chet Baker with this limited edition 180g color vinyl featuring the best of his timeless jazz classics. This collectible LP not only showcases his unforgettable melodies but also comes in unique purple vinyl, making it a perfect addition for any jazz aficionado.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48772784193719,"sku":"210000072334","price":23.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4068188-2931331.jpg?v=1782828531"},{"product_id":"chet-baker-in-paris-vinyl","title":"In Paris LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eImmerse yourself in the velvety tones of Chet Baker with the \"In Paris LP,\" a quintessential jazz experience. Featuring timeless tracks like \"Autumn in New York\" and \"Summertime,\" this album captures Baker's melodic genius and the essence of the Parisian jazz scene. Pressed on 180-gram vinyl, this edition is perfect for collectors and audiophiles alike.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48772784357559,"sku":"210000090662","price":27.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/3520310.jpg?v=1782828536"},{"product_id":"chet-baker-chet-baker-sings-cassette","title":"Chet Baker Sings CASSETTE","description":"\u003cp\u003eExperience the timeless elegance of Chet Baker with \"Chet Baker Sings,\" now available on cassette. This collection showcases Baker's remarkable vocal and trumpet talents through heartfelt tracks like \"My Funny Valentine\" and \"Just Friends,\" all beautifully accompanied by pianist Russ Freeman. Dive into the smooth, dreamy textures of jazz that this legendary artist is celebrated for, enhanced by a bonus track that adds more depth to this iconic release.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785624170679,"sku":"210000097666","price":20.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4413921-3369239.jpg?v=1783045490"},{"product_id":"chet-baker-baby-breeze-cd-import-japan","title":"Baby Breeze CD","description":"\u003cp\u003eExperience the smooth sounds of Chet Baker with this Japanese UHQCD edition of \"Baby Breeze.\" Part of Universal Japan's Limelight Records campaign, it showcases rare recordings that have become hidden gems over the years. This pressing is not only a tribute to Baker's timeless artistry but also a collector's item for jazz enthusiasts.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785670111415,"sku":"210000091522","price":26.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"chet-baker-in-new-york-vinyl","title":"In New York LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eExperience the timeless allure of Chet Baker with \"In New York\", a captivating LP that encapsulates his haunting trumpet style against the backdrop of the 1958 jazz scene. Featuring renowned musicians like Johnny Griffin and Philly Joe Jones, this vinyl gem offers rich warmth and depth, making it a must-have for any jazz aficionado. Expertly cut from original analog master tapes, this 180-gram release is perfect for those seeking an authentic listening experience.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785762681015,"sku":"210000057108","price":31.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/3864304-2648144.jpg?v=1783045842"},{"product_id":"chet-baker-chet-baker-sings-vinyl-1088","title":"Chet Baker Sings LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eJazz Images Pressing part of the William Claxton Collection. The iconic album from Chet Baker.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785776115895,"sku":"210000054192","price":23.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/chet-bak.jpg?v=1783045883"},{"product_id":"chet-baker-chet-baker-sings-the-mono-stereo-versions-vinyl-180g","title":"Chet Baker Sings: The Mono \u0026 Stereo Versions 2LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eExperience the timeless allure of Chet Baker with \"Chet Baker Sings: The Mono \u0026amp; Stereo Versions 2LP\" pressed on high-fidelity 180g vinyl. This collection beautifully showcases both his enchanting vocals and masterful trumpet playing, recorded between 1953 and 1956. Relive classics like \"My Funny Valentine\" and \"That Old Feeling,\" enveloped in rich, analog warmth that honors Baker's unparalleled artistry.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785826218167,"sku":"210000074174","price":34.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4118495-2931326.jpg?v=1783046030"},{"product_id":"chet-baker-sings-vinyl-180g","title":"Sings LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eLimited edition 2011 reissue on 180-gram vinyl. Until this album's initial release in 1956, Chet was known strictly as a trumpeter. A remarkably talented trumpeter. \"Chet Baker Sings\" changed that, and Chet became a noted singer, too.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785887035575,"sku":"210000031791","price":22.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/chet-baker-sings.jpg?v=1783046199"},{"product_id":"chet-baker-chet-baker-sings-vinyl-180g","title":"Chet Baker Sings LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eExperience the timeless charm of Chet Baker with this 180g vinyl edition of \"Chet Baker Sings\". This classic contains all the beloved tracks, including \"My Funny Valentine\" and \"I Fall in Love Too Easily,\" showcasing Baker's exceptional vocal and trumpet skills. Originally released in 1954, this edition brings together iconic sessions from 1953 to 1956, along with a bonus track that perfectly captures the essence of his artistry.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785906663607,"sku":"210000074171","price":20.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4118297-2931382.jpg?v=1783046251"},{"product_id":"chet-baker-chet-baker-quartet-vol-1-in-paris-vol-1","title":"Chet Baker Quartet Vol.1 (In Paris Vol.1)","description":"\u003cp\u003eExperience the smooth, melodic genius of Chet Baker with \"Chet Baker Quartet Vol.1 (In Paris Vol.1).\" This LP captures sessions from October 1955, featuring Baker alongside renowned musicians such as Richard Twardzik, Jimmy Bond, and Peter Littmann. Remastered from original tapes, this release includes classic tracks like \"Rondette\" and \"Sad Walk,\" all presented on high-quality 180g vinyl.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785938186423,"sku":"210000091889","price":32.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4359862-3272763.jpg?v=1783046342"},{"product_id":"chet-baker-blood-chet-and-tears-vinyl-verve-by-request","title":"Blood Chet And Tears LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eImmerse yourself in the unique sound of Chet Baker with the \"Blood Chet And Tears LP,\" a striking entry in the Verve By Request Series. This limited 180-gram vinyl captures Baker's transition into the easy-listening genre of the 1970s, featuring heartfelt renditions of classics like \"Something\" and \"Sugar, Sugar.\" Renowned for his emotional delivery, Baker’s performance of \"Come Saturday Morning\" stands out, showcasing his signature vocal style in a new light. Experience this blend of timeless jazz and contemporary hits as you explore this curated collection.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785956634807,"sku":"210000092707","price":29.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4366721-3270044.jpg?v=1783046393"},{"product_id":"chet-baker-sings-vinyl","title":"Sings 10\"","description":"\u003cp\u003eChet Baker’s Sings; the original 10\" pressed on blue vinyl with two bonus tracks. Baker’s fragile, late-night vocals and spare trumpet make 'My Funny Valentine' quietly unforgettable.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48860489023671,"sku":"210000105839","price":22.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4505082-3563876.jpg?v=1783653914"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.waxtraxrecords.com\/collections\/chet-baker.oembed","provider":"Wax Trax Records","version":"1.0","type":"link"}