“King Pleasure” Clarence Beeks Pathway Marker

See the Tennessee Music Pathways marker honoring Oakdale native “King Pleasure” Clarence Beeks, a pioneering jazz vocalist. Clarence Beeks, known professionally as King Pleasure, was the first to set words to previously-recorded, instrumental jazz recordings. The style was later called “vocalese.” His first session, in February 1952, included “Moody Mood for Love” (later “Moody’s Mood for Love”), setting words to jazz saxophonist James Moody’s improvisation on the standard “I’m in the Mood for Love.” If not the first vocalese record, it certainly popularized the style. A No. 2 R&B hit, it was later covered by Amy Winehouse, Aretha Franklin, Queen Latifah and many others.

Located on the Emory River, Oakdale is a good spot for fishing and boating. Explore the outdoors in nearby Frozen Head State Park where you can pitch a tent or park your RV for a weekend of fun. Waterfalls and natural trails will keep you and the family busy. Travel 34 minutes east to Oak Ridge where you can explore the American Museum of Science and Energy and learn more about Tennessee’s “Secret City.”