Chet Baker has been called the "James Dean of Jazz," a fitting epitaph due to his handsome, slightly dangerous appearance and the rebellious lifestyle he led. He skyrocketed to fame early in his career, then success was derailed by drugs, booze, headline making arrests and critical backlash. Unlike, James Dean, Baker didn't die young and pretty, and it was perhaps even more tragic to see him wither and age most ungraciously.

Baker's clean, uncomplicated trumpet playing epitomized West Coast cool of the '50's, but he found surprising success as a singer. While not a technically accomplished vocalist, Baker had a slight, confessional style of singing that conveyed tons of emotion. Pick up The Best of Chet Baker Plays and The Best of Chet Baker Sings, both on Pacific Jazz, to get a sample of his dual-faceted career. Blue Note's Embraceable You, Songs for Lovers and My Funny Valentine are all wonderful albums for sex and romance. (Karl Pallmeyer)