Hi Bebop,

This post is as good as any to introduce you to one of the greatest ballad singers that ever lived. His name is Bob Manning. He recorded for a major label, Capitol records and had the finest arrangements backing him. The incredible fact is that he never made it as a mainstream artist. To me, he could out sing the majority, including Sinatra. I have uploaded to my website one of his songs, “The Nearness of You” (his first release) that he did for Capitol in January, 1953. Just sit back and listen to this fine voice and above all, the lush and beautiful timeless arrangement by Monte Kelly. Why this man wasn’t an overnight sensation is beyond me. Most people have never heard of him and it gives me great pleasure for you to hear him. www.garnetrecords.com/thenearness.wma

kn7