That Cat Is High - The Ink Spots
"That Cat Is High" is a classic jazz track by the vocal group The Ink Spots. The song was originally recorded in 1941 and became one of the group's most popular and enduring hits. The theme of the song revolves around a playful and humorous story about a cat that has indulged in some sort of substance and is now acting in a carefree and uninhibited manner. The lyrics describe the cat's behavior in a lighthearted and whimsical way, with references to its dancing and singing. The composition of the song features the smooth vocal harmonies that The Ink Spots were known for, along with a swinging jazz instrumental arrangement. The catchy melody and infectious rhythm make it a fun and enjoyable listen, perfect for dancing and having a good time. One notable fact about "That Cat Is High" is that it showcases the group's signature sound and style, which helped solidify their reputation as one of the most influential vocal groups of the 1940s. The song's playful lyrics and upbeat tempo also make it a standout track in The Ink Spots' extensive discography. Overall, "That Cat Is High" is a timeless jazz classic that continues to delight listeners with its charm and wit.
The Ink Spots
The Ink Spots were an American vocal group that achieved widespread fame in the 1930s and 1940s for their unique style of harmonizing. The group was founded in Indianapolis, Indiana in 1934 by four members: Orville "Hoppy" Jones, Ivory "Deek" Watson, Jerry Daniels, and Charlie Fuqua. The Ink Spots quickly gained popularity for their smooth, close-harmony singing style, which featured lead vocals by Jones and Watson, backed by Fuqua and Daniels. Their signature sound was characterized by their tight vocal harmonies, simple arrangements, and evocative lyrics. They were known for their distinctive "talking" bass lines, which were often sung by Jones in a deep, resonant voice. The group's breakthrough came in 1939 with their hit song "If I Didn't Care," which became a best-selling record and established them as one of the most popular vocal groups of the era. They went on to release a string of successful singles, including "The Gypsy," "We Three (My Echo, My Shadow and Me)," and "I Don't Want to Set the World on Fire." The Ink Spots were one of the first black musical groups to achieve mainstream success in the United States, and their music had a significant impact on the development of popular music. They were influential in the evolution of doo-wop and R&B music, and their smooth vocal harmonies inspired many future vocal groups. Throughout their career, The Ink Spots were known for their polished performances and impeccable musicality. They toured extensively and performed around the world, earning a reputation as one of the premier vocal groups of their time. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989 in recognition of their contributions to music. The Ink Spots disbanded in the 1950s, but their music continued to influence generations of musicians. Their timeless recordings have endured as classics of the vocal group genre, and their impact on music can still be heard in the harmonies of contemporary artists. The Ink Spots' legacy as pioneers of vocal harmony and trailblazers for black musicians in the music industry remains strong to this day.