Jonathan and Darlene

As I was listening to NPR on Friday early evening, Terri Gross from "Fresh Air" was doing a piece on Jo Stafford, the legendary chanteuse from the 40's and 50's, who recently passed away this last week at 92. During the interview, Jo was asked about her alter-ego that she would perform under, named Darlene Edwards, with her partner Jonathan Edwards (Paul Weston-another remarkable pianist and musician).

I was entranced. Well, yes, Jo Stafford's voice is pleasant to listen to when she sings as Jo Stafford. But this Jonathan and Darlene Edwards schtick is sheer brilliance! I remember the movie, "Kentucky Fried Movie," (I know.....who the hell would bother but me), and at the end of the movie was a woman singing just a little off-key, a little out of rhythm, and with a whole lot of reckless bravura, the song "Carioca" from the 1930's. I can also recall that that was the first time I think I have ever stayed to watch the credits, as I was mesmorized by the sheer ghastliness of the singing (and piano accompanying). And I remember that I literally laughed out loud once the song finished.

Yes, my friends, that was Jonathan and Darlene Edwards in fine form.

Apparently a gag duo thing they used to do to entertain cocktail party guests, Jo and Paul created something remarkably fresh. I had to google it. In the process of googling Jonathan and Darlene Edwards, I came across a slew of sights, as well as links to music vendors. Needless to say, my wallet is now about $60 lighter.

I can hardly wait for my new music to come. After all, who wouldn't want to hear "April in Paris," "Take the 'A' Train," "Don't Get Around Much Anymore," and "Stayin' Alive" in true Jonathan and Darlene style. I mean, a singer and pianist who purposely make things sound bad by playing wrong notes, or by singing just a hair (or full head of hair) out of tune HAS to be a phenomenal musician. I strongly recommend checking out the following Myspace weblink:

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=241715879

This is Darlene and Jonathan at their sheer brutalist....

I love laughing...and this just about made me wet myself!

Enjoy!