Description
Eartha Kitt – Bad But Beautiful – 180 Gram Vinyl Record
Bad But Beautiful is a classic vocal jazz and cabaret album by Eartha Kitt, originally released in 1963. Showcasing the sophistication, charisma, and unmistakable vocal style that made Kitt one of the most distinctive performers of the twentieth century, the album stands as one of the defining recordings of her career. Blending jazz, traditional pop, cabaret, and torch song influences, Bad But Beautiful presents a collection of emotionally rich performances that highlight Kitt’s extraordinary ability to combine elegance, sensuality, humor, and dramatic storytelling.
By the early 1960s, Eartha Kitt had already achieved international fame as both a recording artist and stage performer. Renowned for her sultry voice, theatrical presence, and cosmopolitan appeal, she developed a unique artistic identity that transcended conventional genre boundaries. Whether performing in nightclubs, on Broadway, or in film and television, Kitt brought a sense of sophistication and individuality to everything she did. Bad But Beautiful captures these qualities beautifully, offering listeners a portrait of an artist at the height of her interpretive powers.
The album’s title perfectly reflects the themes and atmosphere that run throughout the collection. Many of the songs explore romance, temptation, heartbreak, independence, desire, and emotional complexity. The phrase “bad but beautiful” evokes characters and situations that are alluring, mysterious, and difficult to resist—subjects that Kitt was uniquely suited to interpret. Through her nuanced performances, she brings depth and humanity to these themes, transforming each song into a compelling narrative.
Bad But Beautiful is rooted in the traditions of jazz and sophisticated popular song. The arrangements are elegant and richly orchestrated, featuring lush strings, tasteful brass, and refined rhythmic accompaniment that complement Kitt’s distinctive vocal delivery. Rather than overwhelming the performances, the arrangements provide a luxurious backdrop that enhances the emotional and dramatic qualities of the material.
One of the album’s defining strengths is Kitt’s remarkable gift for interpretation. Her voice, instantly recognizable for its warmth, texture, and expressive character, allows her to communicate emotion with exceptional precision. She approaches each song as a storyteller, carefully shaping phrases and emphasizing key lyrical moments to create vivid emotional portraits. Whether conveying vulnerability, confidence, longing, or playful wit, Kitt demonstrates complete command of the material.
The album balances moments of romantic melancholy with lighter, more playful performances, creating a dynamic listening experience that showcases the full range of Kitt’s artistic personality. Her ability to move effortlessly between sophistication and spontaneity gives the recording a timeless charm and helps distinguish it from many other vocal albums of its era.
The songs explore the complexities of human relationships and emotional experience. Themes of love gained and lost, attraction, independence, and self-awareness are presented with intelligence and subtlety. Kitt’s interpretations often reveal hidden layers within the lyrics, allowing listeners to connect with the material on both emotional and intellectual levels. Her performances are never merely decorative; they are deeply engaged with the stories and emotions at the heart of each song.
The album also reflects Kitt’s international sensibility and artistic versatility. Throughout her career, she was known for performing in multiple languages and embracing musical influences from around the world. While Bad But Beautiful is firmly rooted in the tradition of American popular song, it carries the worldly sophistication and cultural breadth that became hallmarks of her work.
Bad But Beautiful was praised for its elegant production, strong repertoire, and Kitt’s captivating performances. Over time, it has come to be regarded as one of the standout recordings in her extensive catalog and an excellent example of her talents as both a vocalist and interpreter. The album continues to attract listeners who appreciate classic vocal jazz, cabaret, and sophisticated pop music.
With its luxurious arrangements, emotionally rich performances, and timeless sense of style, Bad But Beautiful remains one of Eartha Kitt’s most memorable and enduring recordings. The album captures the essence of an artist whose unique voice and magnetic personality left an indelible mark on music and popular culture. Elegant, expressive, and endlessly captivating, Bad But Beautiful stands as a testament to Eartha Kitt’s extraordinary artistry and her lasting legacy as one of entertainment’s most distinctive performers.
Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic
Track Listing
All I Want Is All There Is And Then Some
Do It Again!
It’s So Nice To Have A Man Around The House
La Dolce Vita (The Sweet Life)
Lola-Lola (From The Film “The Blue Angel”)
A Lady Loves
Love For Sale
Always True To You In My Fashion
Whatever Lola Wants (Lola Gets)
Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend
Never On Sunday
Good Little Girls
