Between 1950 and 1971, Pearl Bailey’s discography includes 32 albums, ranging from motion picture soundtracks to Broadway cast recordings. In 1971 Pearl recorded a Cabaret style jazz album titled Pearl’s Pearls. The album was produced by Jack Pleis and features her husband, Louie Bellson and his Orchestra.

Louie’s deep admiration for his wife and her talent is beautifully expressed on the backside of the album. According to Louie, “she injects that Bailey touch and sound into these standard tunes making this album pure, honest and a must for every music lover. Pearl and Louie first met while he was the drummer for Duke Ellington’s Band.

In fact, Louie was the only white member of Ellington’s Band. The two married just four days after meeting and remained married until Pearl’s death in 1990.