Grace Markay’s Self-Titled Album: A Timeless Pop Gem from 1967
If you’re a fan of lush, vocal-driven pop music with just the right sprinkle of charm and sophistication, Grace Markay’s self-titled album is worth a spin—or three. Released in 1967 under Capitol Records (or was it Capital Records? The label seems to have had an identity crisis), this US-born gem blends smooth arrangements with Grace’s warm, expressive voice. It’s like stepping into a time machine that lands smack dab in the golden age of easy-listening pop.
The album packs some real bangers, but two tracks stand out for me: "Summer Wind" and "What Now My Love." Let’s start with "Summer Wind." You’ve probably heard Frank Sinatra’s version before—it’s iconic—but Grace brings her own vibe to it. Her take feels lighter, almost like she’s whispering secrets about lazy summer afternoons. Billy May’s arrangement on this track gives it a breezy, jazzy feel without overdoing it. I swear, every time I hear it, I’m transported to sipping lemonade on a porch somewhere. Honestly, who wouldn’t want that?
Then there’s "What Now My Love," which hits different. This one’s got emotional depth, y’know? Sid Feller’s arrangement adds layers of drama without drowning out Grace’s vocals, letting her belt when she needs to and pull back when the moment calls for subtlety. It’s the kind of song that makes you pause whatever you’re doing and just listen. There’s something raw yet polished about how Grace delivers those lyrics—it sticks with you long after the needle lifts off the record.
Now, let’s talk credits for a sec because they deserve props too. Bob Bain handled most of the arranging duties, and dude clearly knew his stuff. Every track flows seamlessly into the next, creating this cohesive listening experience. And hey, kudos to Billy May and Sid Feller for stepping up where needed—they didn’t phone it in, that’s for sure.
But here’s the thing—what makes this album so special isn’t just its technical brilliance or even Grace’s voice. It’s how it captures a specific mood, a vibe that feels both nostalgic and timeless. Listening to it now, decades later, it still resonates. Like, how does that work? Was 1967 just a magical year for music, or did Grace stumble onto something extraordinary?
Anyway, if you ever find yourself craving a soundtrack for quiet moments or late-night musings, give Grace Markay a shot. Just don’t blame me if you end up humming “Summer Wind” for days. Oh, and fun fact—I bet Grace would’ve killed it covering A Man And A Woman. Wait, she already did? Never mind then. Still slaps though.