Now, here's a record no John Denver fan--or any lover of great vocal work, really--should go without this Christmas season.
The legendary Milt Okun has worked with Plácido Domingo, conducted for Harry Belafonte and, most apropos, was the man who brought John Denver to stardom--having produced his best hits. (Okun is also known for transforming three unknown singers, who had never before worked together, into one of the most successful musical acts of their generation: Peter, Paul and Mary.)
Readers of a certain vintage will also remember Okun's founding of Cherry Lane Music, the publishing arm of Elvis Presley, DreamWorks and several other household names.
Forever lauded as the A&R genius who ensured that Henry John Deutschendorf, Jr. (1943-97) became a household name, himself, with such hits as "Rocky Mountain High" and "Sunshine on My Shoulders," Okun also produced and arranged John Denver's Christmas album, as well as both Denver records with the Muppets.
Even younger readers will recall that John Denver and the Muppets: A Christmas Together went gold (and then platinum).
It was after this collaboration that a critic famously wrote, "Of all major producers, Okun has the widest range--from Plácido Domingo to the Muppets." And with these exclusive clips from Great Voices Sing: John Denver, Milt Okun can now count African-American mezzo Denyce Graves and Chinese bass-baritone Shenyang among his production ranks.
Denyce Graves, “Sunshine on My Shoulders"
Shenyang, “Shanghai Breezes"
Great Voices Sing: John Denver is out now, on both iTunes and Amazon. To watch even more great singers lovingly cover Denver's songbook, do check out greatvoicessingjd.com.
No matter your age, you'll be glad you did. Indeed.
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