2015 marked the 80th Anniversary of The Count Basie Orchestra. Following the successful release of this album last Christmas, we'William "Count" Basie (1904-1984) started his orchestra in Kansas City in 1935, and proceeded to develop and maintain one of the greatest jazz orchestras in music history. With Mr. Basie's meticulous attention to detail, selecting the very best musicians, and making sure that every tune could be danced to, The Count Basie Orchestra soon became the favorite for everyone to listen and dance to with its irresistible "Kansas City stomp" style. Today, under the leadership of its Director, Scotty Barnhart, The Count Basie Orchestra is traveling the world celebrating its 80th Anniversary and continuing the excellent standards in swinging and shouting the blues with precision, and continuing to be "The Most Explosive Force In Jazz." In celebration of the 80th Anniversary, The Count Basie Orchestra releases its first Christmas album, A Very Swingin' Basie Christmas! The 19-piece band is accompanied with the guest vocals of Johnny Mathis on "It's The Holiday Season", Ledisi on "The Christmas Song" and Carmen Bradford on "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas." Additionally, Ellis Marsalis (Piano) and Plas Johnson (saxophone) are guest musicians on "I'll Be Home For Christmas".
