16 essential tracks - limited edition pressing on 180g red vinyl, contains new specially prepared liner notes by Penguin Guide to Jazz's writer Brian Morton and by Paris' prestigious Jazz Magazine

Billie Holiday's legendary Commodore recordings made between 1939 and 1944 gave credence to Holiday being the most lyrical and expressive vocalist in jazz history.

This set compiles the complete master takes she recorded for the legendary Commodore label - sessions that presented her in top form and backed by small groups with star players such as trumpeter players Doc Cheatham and Frankie Newton, saxophonist Tab Smith , pianist Eddie Heywood , bassist John Simmons , trombonist Vic Dickenson, and drummer Sidney Catlett, among others.

Among the highlights are Billie Holiday 's frst version of "Strange Fruit" (which she used to conclude her stage performances) and readings of famous standards that she would never record again, such as 'As Time Goes By' and I'll Be Seeing You.'