Lyrics & Lyricists: With Mabel Mercer the Words Come First

For decades, the inimitable English-born cabaret singer Mabel Mercer (1900-1984) enthralled audiences in Europe and the United States; she also influenced singers from Frank Sinatra to Lena Horne. Donald Smith, executive director of the Mabel Mercer Foundation, and a long time friend and associate of Mercer, presents some of the songs that made her a legend. Her legacy is particularly well-suited to Lyrics & Lyricists since she was known for considering lyrics first as she prepared her repertoire, and her performances offered unique insights into the interplay of words and music.