Steven Chera’s 2016 release, The Classic Standards, Vol. 1, is an homage to the golden age of American popular music, delivered in his signature crooner style. The album showcases Chera’s deep appreciation for the Great American Songbook, particularly the songs made famous by his idol, Frank Sinatra.
The album is not merely a collection of covers; Chera successfully captures the style and ambiance of the Rat Pack era while imbuing the tracks with his own personality and flair, avoiding a purely derivative sound. The production is high-quality, reflecting the effort he has put into mastering the traditional pop and jazz genres. Chera is frequently accompanied by his esteemed collaborators, including pianist and Music Director Bob Kaye (known for his work with Buddy Rich and Dizzy Gillespie), drummer Ed Caccavalle, and bassist Lew Scott. Tracks on the album include classics such as “I Can’t Give You Anything but Love” and “Someone to Watch Over Me,” continuing Chera’s mission to keep the spirit of these timeless standards alive for a modern audience.
Steven Chera’s rendition of the classic standard “My One and Only Love” was released as a single in November 2015. The song is a challenging ballad, originally made famous by legendary vocalists like Frank Sinatra, known for its sweeping, aria-like melody that requires both vocal control and emotional depth. Chera is noted for putting a “beautiful spin” on the standard, serenading the listener with his delightful vocals. His take on the song is backed by a tight jazz ensemble, specifically The “One and Only” Bob Kaye Trio. Chera, whose style is rooted in traditional pop, jazz, and easy listening, draws inspiration from icons such as Nat “King” Cole and Frank Sinatra, making “My One and Only Love” a natural fit for his smooth, romantic song-stylist approach.