By 1953, Lee had been recording professionally since joining the Benny Goodman Orchestra in 1941, but had only released songs on 78s or 45s.

In his book Jazz Singing, Will Friedwald names the album one of his desert island discs.

[3] Three sessions in 1953 yielded eight tracks for the 10-in LP at Decca Studios on West 57th Street in New York City on April 30, May 1, and May 4.

The 1956 sessions to record the additional four tracks the 12-in LP were at Decca studios in Hollywood on April 3 with different personnel.

Milt Gabler is mentioned in the reissue credits as artists and repertoire representative for Decca.