The Lady in Black Loves Records
Let's talk records! My collection is pretty massive to a point where I sometimes forget what records I even own! But I have an obsession with collecting and I cannot be stopped. If I pass a vendor where vinyls are being sold outside or if I'm in a vintage shop, there's a 9/10 chance I will pick up a record. You can find a sweet deal on a solid record. I bought a few interesting records fairly recent that I thought I'd share with you guys.
The first is Funny Stuff (1963) by Redd Foxx. Yes, I have some comedy records! I will cringingly admit that I did not know vintage comedy records was even a thing until I watched the TV show, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (if you have not watched this show yet, shame on you!). The show follows a woman who becomes an aspiring comedienne after her husband leaves her for his secretary. She begins to study comedy like a subject in school. There's one scene where she's in her room listening to a Redd Foxx record and cracking up. The irony is a couple days later, I popped into a vintage shop and this bright green Redd Foxx record jumped out at me. Call it coincidence or maybe my brain was subconsciously scanning for a vinyl of his (probably the latter).
It is VERY interesting listening to old comedy--especially from 1950s-70s. I'm a fan of Bob Newhart, Richard Pryor, Johnny Carson, and so on. I am also a huge fan of Redd Foxx specifically on his hit TV show Sanford and Son (1972-77). This was my first time being exposed to 1960s Redd Foxx and I am not disappointed! Skits titled: "Ventilated Cheese," "Old & Ugly," "Finger Wetting," and "My Wife's Mustache," should tell you enough! The back of the record holder has rave reviews deeming Foxx the best comedian of that time. He has amazing one liners, quick pace, and relentless wit!
1950s-60s comedy in general is interesting to listen to because there's something quite intellectual about it. Sometimes I have to replay Foxx's skits to fully get the gist of the joke. Even the audience seems stumped for a moment and then crack up when they realize what he meant! This is a record that is great to play when having company over with a round of cocktails. I highly recommend getting into comedy vinyls! I definitely want to invest in more.
Another super cute record I snagged is pianist Eddy Duchin's, Duchin Plays Cole Porter (1942). I had no idea who Duchin was prior to buying the album, but I couldn't resist the adorable record cover. He was popular from 1930s-50s as he died in 1957 at the young age of 41. There was a biopic made about him called The Eddy Duchin Story (1956) starring Tyrone Power and the gorgeous Kim Novak. I'm only discussing Duchin as his life was pretty interesting when I read up on him. He went from a war hero to discharged from the army and thus dropping from fame. Amazing how purchasing a record can get you super curious about the artist you purchased!
Anyhow this record provides such great background music. This is probably the oldest record that I own, so it has a more crackly slightly eerie sound to it. Nevertheless it t is perfect easy listening music. Duchin is a wonderful pianist and plays some of my favorite Cole Porter songs such as, "I've Got You Under My Skin," "Easy to Love," and "I Get a Kick Out Of You." This is the kind of record that I'd put on while doing chores around the house or when I just want background music, but not overwhelmingly so.
Today's all black ensemble is a go to when I want to be comfortable, but still look slightly chic. When in doubt wear all black and at least one fabulous piece to really tie the look together. I wore simple black cotton pants with a drawstring tied waist (a go to for optimum comfort). I paired it with a super simple black long sleeved cotton Hanes shirt. Then overtop I wore a chic black cardigan sweater that I found in a consignment shop. What drew me to this little number is the softness of the fabric, the pretty (and slightly dramatic) faux fur collar, the tiny buttons going down the front, and the little tie at the collar. The fur collar reminds me of something Joan Crawford would wear, but the softness of the small ribbon tie reminds me of something Doris Day may sport with a cute vintage hat!
When wearing simple modern outfits, I like to "retrofy" it through my hair and makeup. Curled hair, red lipstick, a cat eye, and a bit of blush goes a long way! You'd be surprised how many people would consider this look "dressing up," despite it's simplicity. But it's all in the details! If you have the right retro hairdo and makeup and at least one statement piece, you can still give the illusion of a put together ensemble!
Hope you enjoyed this post and I'll see you next week!
Photographs taken by Henrietta Audu.