Happy Birthday, Ethel Merman!

By Ken Bloom

Steven Cole was a friend of the great Ethel Merman, and La Merm gave him copies of her home-made private recordings. Among these are many rarities including “Leather Lungs" recording songs from her upcoming Broadway show, Gypsy. She even covers songs from the musical that she didn’t sing, including a genuinely touching “Little Lamb.” Mermania! has all that — and even more with many songs sung by Merman for the first-and-only time, such as two songs for Hello, Dolly! that were especially written for her by composer-lyricist Jerry Herman..

Harbinger first released this CD 20 years ago to great acclaim by fans of Broadway, American Popular Song and great singing.

We’re proud to call the album to your attention this month and offer it for digital download.

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