Democratic Party
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Backed by a full orchestra, Sinatra is in excellent voice and the song selection is first-rate, with the exception of the "mod" "Goin' Out of My Head," which suits the singer about as well as love beads and platform shoes. The concert contained on this disc was a big Democratic Party fundraiser, and it was very rare for Sinatra (or any other performer) to do stadium shows at this time. Sadly, such massive concerts would become Sinatra's main musical activity throughout the '70s and '80s. Since this concert was a fundraiser for a Democratic candidate, the bootleg also includes Sinatra's reworking of "High Hopes" for John Kennedy's presidential campaign as a bonus.
Before Frank Sinatra immortalised My Way as his song, there were many that vied for its place. You can hear a whole range of his greatest songs on this single CD that captures Sinatra in his prime at a fund-raising concert for presidential candidate Hubert Humphrey on May 22, 1968. Although not known to be political, Sinatra moved in political circles mixing with the Kennedys and, in the song, The Lady Is A Tramp, he throws in a reworked verse showing his disdain for actor Ronald Reagan, then governor of California. Sinatra was already doing it his way. You can hear an audible gasp of disbelief from the audience.
The Oakland concert was the first time a cabaret act was opening in a sports arena. Sinatra had the savoir faire to pull it off, singing comfortably and effortlessly, changing the words here and there, with the band and orchestra following his every whim. That voice was never better.
The recording is professionally made and for a limited time unofficially released as a bootleg CD. The original bootleg is hard to find and also includes Sinatra’s reworking of “High Hopes” for John Kennedy’s presidential campaign as a bonus. Rock stars who campaign for causes weren’t the only ones doing it.