Diane Schurr's Top 10 Albums

Singer on her picks: "I don’t know why I like it. I just do.”

Stewart Weiner Arts & Entertainment

Considered one of Frank Sinatra's best albums, it is a favorite of Diane Schurr.
Photo courtesy of Capital Photo Archives

 

Watching Diane Schuur listen to some of her favorite music- — the way she rocks back and forth, her fingers in constant motion, the broad beaming smile that lights up her face — is nearly as delightful as the music itself.

It’s always intriguing to ask professional musicians to name their favorite artists or albums. Schuur is no exception. Sometimes she provides an explanation with her choices, but mostly, she says, “I’m not a critic. I’m a musician. I don’t know why I like it. I just do.”

• See related story: Schurr Joy

The Beatles (aka White Album) (Apple, 1968). Schuur says the performances are so varied, and so much thought went into it, the album completely captivates her.

Serpentine Fire, Mark Colby (CBS/Sony, 1976). Deedles likes singing along with all the saxophonist’s riffs from the lower to the highest registers.

Bolling Suite for Flute, Jean-Pierre Rampal and Claude Bolling (Columbia Masterworks, 1975). Due to her blindness, Ms. Schuur was unaware of the famous cover illustration by Roger Huyssen, with the piano and flute enjoying an afterglow. Describing it brought big laughter from her.

Songs in the Key of Life, Stevie Wonder (1976, Tamla). “Isn’t She Lovely” and “Knocks Me Off My Feet.” ‘Nuff said.

The Captain’s Journey, Lee Ritenour (Elektra, 1978). As she cues this up on her computer and the first cut begins, Ms. Schuur sings along with Ritenour’s complex guitar chords, smiling all the while.

Nice ’n’ Easy, Frank Sinatra (Capitol, 1960). Schuur’s latest CD is called I Remember You: With Love to Stan [Getz] and Frank. It’s Schuur’s favorite Ol’ Blue Eyes LP and one that critics often count as among Sinatra’s best.  

In a Silent Way, Miles Davis (Columbia, 1969). A cornerstone of any jazz collection.

Queen and Quincy, Dinah Washington and Quincy Jones (Mercury, 1965). It’s obvious how much Dinah meant to Ms. Schuur in terms of style and phrasing.

After Hours, Sarah Vaughan (Roulette, 1961). Just a voice, a double bass and guitar. Quiet and intimate.

Illuminations, Santana (Columbia, 1974). In collaboration with Alice Coltrane.

 

— Sarah Vaughn, Miles Davis album covers courtesy of Sony Music Entertainment