The Mel-Tones 1945 - Russian Lullaby in Jive

The Mel-Tones - Mel Torme, Bernie Parke, Ginny O’Connor, Betty Beveridge, and Les Baxter sing “Tantza Babele,“ written by Torme and previously performed by the group in the 1944 movie “Let’s Go Steady.“ Movie contract restrictions supposedly kept Torme from appearing in this and other 1945 Soundies. Blonde Bernie Parke lip-syncs Torme’s voice. An unknown, dark-haired male stand-in completes the group. The accompanying jazz quintet features Buddy Cole (Jazz Organist for Henry Mancini and later married to Yvonne King of The King Sisters) on piano, Dave Barbour (later married to Peggy Lee) on Guitar, Nick Pelico on Vibes, Phil Stevens, String Bass, and Nick Fatool on Drums. Thanks to Mark Cantor of CantorJazzOnFilm channel on youtube for this title.