What A Diff’rence A Day Makes, released in 1959 on Mercury Records, marked a turning point in the career of vocalist Dinah Washington — earning her a GRAMMY Award and bringing her rich, blues-informed style into the world of lush orchestral pop.

Produced by Clyde Otis and arranged by Belford Hendricks, the album represents Washington’s successful crossover from jazz and R&B into the mainstream pop market. The title track, originally written in Spanish in the 1930s and popularized in English by other vocalists, became Washington’s signature song after her version climbed the Billboard charts and won the 1960 GRAMMY for Best Rhythm & Blues Performance — the first year the award was presented.

The album balances Washington’s commanding vocal presence with sophisticated arrangements that blend strings, rhythm section, and light brass. Tracks like “Cry Me a River,” “Manhattan,” and “Time After Time” showcase her ability to deliver emotional nuance and rhythmic phrasing with precision and ease. The result is a seamless fusion of jazz tradition and contemporary production, establishing Washington as one of the most versatile and expressive vocalists of her era.

The Verve Vault series is always mastered from analog tapes and pressed on 180g vinyl at Optimal.