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The “most exciting” band Frank Sinatra ever worked with: “A juggernaut”
Frank Sinatra’s partnership with Count Basie and his orchestra helped refresh his sound and keep him prominent as musical tastes shifted in the 1960s. Sinatra called the collaboration, with Quincy Jones also involved, the most exciting engagement of his performing life.
Their work began with the 1962 album *Sinatra – Basie: An Historic Musical First*, followed by Jones-produced *It Might as Well Be Swing*. The 1966 live album *Sinatra at the Sands*, recorded in Las Vegas, became closely associated with Sinatra’s 1960s sound and included songs such as “Fly Me to the Moon” and “I’ve Got You Under My Skin”.
In short
- Count Basie’s orchestra gave Sinatra a fresh sound in the 1960s.
- Quincy Jones produced their follow-up album.
- Sinatra called the Basie Orchestra a “juggernaut”.
Explained simply
Frank Sinatra was one of the leading American singers of the mid-20th century, known for his solo performances with orchestras and big bands. Count Basie was a celebrated jazz pianist and bandleader whose orchestra was known for its rhythmic, brass-led sound.
Their partnership brought Sinatra together with Basie’s large ensemble, with arranger and producer Quincy Jones helping shape the recordings. It began with a studio album in 1962 and continued with a live performance recorded in Las Vegas in 1966.
The collaboration came as popular music was changing, with rock and roll drawing new audiences. Working with Basie’s orchestra gave Sinatra a fresh musical setting while connecting his familiar songs with the sound of a jazz big band.