Introduction
Sarah Vaughan, one of the greatest vocalists in jazz history, has given the world countless timeless performances that continue to resonate with music lovers today. Among her many iconic recordings, “Make Yourself Comfortable” stands out as a captivating jazz classic that showcases her unparalleled vocal ability and emotional depth. In this blog post, we’ll explore the significance of “Make Yourself Comfortable,” its lyrical themes, and why this song remains a staple of jazz music, even decades after its release.
Who Was Sarah Vaughan?
Before diving into the song itself, it’s important to understand the legacy of Sarah Vaughan. Born in 1924 in Newark, New Jersey, Vaughan’s voice was often described as a perfect blend of power, precision, and warmth. She was a master of jazz, bebop, and pop music, leaving a rich catalog of recordings that span multiple genres. Known for her impressive vocal range and expressive delivery, Sarah Vaughan earned the nickname “Sassy” for her ability to effortlessly transition between musical styles.
Her influence on jazz is undeniable, and her recordings with orchestras, big bands, and small ensembles have made her a key figure in shaping modern jazz vocalization. “Make Yourself Comfortable” is a shining example of Vaughan’s artistry, where she combines her vocal prowess with her deep understanding of jazz and emotion.
Exploring “Make Yourself Comfortable”
“Make Yourself Comfortable” was written by Jimmy Van Heusen (music) and Johnny Mercer (lyrics), two legendary figures in American popular music. Released in 1948, the song is a smooth, inviting number that exemplifies the charm and warmth of the jazz era. The lyrics present a romantic yet laid-back sentiment, offering a gentle invitation for someone to relax and enjoy the company of the singer.
The song opens with the welcoming line:
“Make yourself comfortable, come on in,
It’s so easy to begin.”
These lines set the tone for the rest of the song—approachable, serene, and intimate. As Vaughan sings, she creates a sense of space and openness, encouraging the listener to leave their worries behind and simply enjoy the moment. It’s not just a song about love; it’s about creating a mood, a space where two people can connect without any rush or distraction.
Why “Make Yourself Comfortable” is a Timeless Jazz Classic
Several factors contribute to the lasting appeal of “Make Yourself Comfortable,” making it a quintessential jazz standard:
1. Sarah Vaughan’s Signature Vocal Style
What makes this song stand out is Vaughan’s ability to convey subtlety and emotional depth through her voice. Her phrasing is impeccable, capturing both the tenderness and warmth of the lyrics. Vaughan’s vocal delivery is like a smooth caress, wrapping around the melody and pulling the listener into a world of intimacy and comfort.
Her ability to control her voice across a wide range of notes—effortlessly gliding from low to high and back again—gives the song a distinctive richness. Even in its simplest moments, Vaughan’s voice carries such a sense of lushness and richness that the listener is captivated by her every note.
2. The Jazz Swing and Orchestration
While Sarah Vaughan’s voice is the heart of the song, the orchestration and arrangement of the track are equally important. The song is backed by a lush, swinging jazz ensemble that supports Vaughan without overshadowing her. The smooth rhythm section and the gently swaying brass and woodwinds create an atmospheric setting that complements the relaxed yet sophisticated vibe of the lyrics.
Jazz arrangements like these are one of the reasons why “Make Yourself Comfortable” feels timeless. The song’s smooth swing, coupled with Vaughan’s vocal artistry, perfectly captures the essence of mid-century jazz, a period when jazz was evolving and embracing more complex harmonies while still remaining accessible and deeply emotional.
3. Universal Themes of Romance and Comfort
At its core, the song’s lyrics revolve around themes of hospitality, comfort, and romance. The offer of making oneself comfortable represents a gesture of warmth, safety, and emotional openness. The notion of creating a space where two people can feel at ease is timeless and universal. In a way, “Make Yourself Comfortable” transcends the particularities of time and place—its message speaks to anyone seeking a sense of calm and connection.
The lyrics are not overly complicated, but they convey a sentiment that resonates with listeners on a deep level. It’s this simplicity, combined with the emotional depth of Vaughan’s performance, that makes the song so enduring.
The Influence of “Make Yourself Comfortable” in Jazz and Beyond
“Make Yourself Comfortable” remains a beloved piece of jazz history, frequently covered by other artists and performed in live settings. Vaughan’s version of the song stands as a benchmark for vocal jazz, inspiring countless vocalists across genres. Her delivery of this song is a perfect example of how to balance technique with feeling, making the song a model for aspiring jazz singers.
The song’s warm, inviting tone also influenced the development of jazz vocals, particularly in terms of how to create a mood and a space in the music. Modern jazz singers and even pop artists continue to look to Sarah Vaughan’s approach to phrasing and vocal styling when crafting their own music.
Conclusion: Why You Should Listen to “Make Yourself Comfortable”
Whether you’re a longtime jazz enthusiast or new to the genre, “Make Yourself Comfortable” by Sarah Vaughan is a must-listen. With its soothing melody, beautifully crafted lyrics, and Vaughan’s masterful vocal performance, it’s a song that offers both emotional depth and musical sophistication. It’s a perfect example of the magic that happens when a great artist and great music come together.
In a world that often feels rushed and hectic, “Make Yourself Comfortable” invites us to slow down, take a breath, and enjoy the moment. And who better to guide us through that moment than one of the greatest voices jazz has ever known—Sarah Vaughan.
Listen to “Make Yourself Comfortable” today and experience the timeless elegance of jazz at its finest.
Lyrics
Mm-mm, make yourself comfortableMm-mm, make yourself comfortableMm-mm, make yourself comfortable, babyI’ve got some records here to put you in the moodThe phone is off the hook so no one can intrudeI feel romantic and the records change is all demanded, babySweetheart, we hurry through our dinner, hurry through the danceLeft before the picture show was throughWhy did we hurry through the dinner, hurry through the dance?To leave some time for thisTo hug, hug and kiss and kiss, nowTake off your shoes in here and loosen up your tieI got some kisses here, let’s try one on for sizeI’ll turn the lights low while you make yourself comfortable, babySweetheart, we hurry through are dinner, hurry through the danceLeft before the picture show was throughWhy did we hurry through the dinner, hurry through the dance?To leave some time for thisTo hug, hug and kiss and kiss, nowTake off your shoes in here and loosen up your tieI got some kisses here, let’s try one on for sizeI’ll turn the lights low while you make yourself comfortable, babyMake yourself comfortable, baby
