King Pleasure, born Clarence Beeks on March 24, 1922, in Oakdale, Tennessee, was a pioneering American jazz vocalist known for his mastery of vocalese, a style where singers add lyrics to well-known instrumental solos. He moved to New York City in the mid-1940s, working as a bartender and becoming an avid fan of bebop music. Pleasure gained prominence with his rendition of "Moody's Mood For Love," based on James Moody's saxophone solo. His 1952 recording with the Prestige label, featuring Blossom Dearie, is considered a jazz classic. He also collaborated with Betty Carter on "Red Top" and recorded other notable tracks like "Parker's Mood" and "Swan Blues." King Pleasure influenced artists like Van Morrison and Genya Ravan. He passed away on March 21, 1981, just shy of his 59th birthday.