Vocalist Natalie Douglas has released a second single from her forthcoming album Back to the Garden, which will be available in February 2024 on Club44 Records.

Get an exclusive first listen to Douglas performing the Cole Porter classic “Begin the Beguine” above; the new single will be available via streaming and digital download starting December 29. The first single from the recording, "Trust in Me," was released in September.

The album is produced by Wayne Haun, with Joel Lindsey and Sharon Terrell serving as executive producers. Orchestrations are by Haun, with Joel Mott providing big band arrangements.

“I’ve always loved this Cole Porter composition,” says Douglas in a statement. “In 2017, I began my ‘Tributes’ residency at Birdland with a show devoted to the music of Sammy Davis, Jr., and did a deep dive into his recordings. I had heard several of Davis’ interpretations of this song, but I was completely mesmerized by his 1957 recording of Sy Oliver’s arrangement. I’m thrilled to have recorded our version of ‘Begin the Beguine’ based on Oliver’s chart. It thoroughly captures the way music and memory are closely woven together, especially if you’re remembering a night of romance, dancing, and laughter. I just love listening to this… those horns! Plus, now seems like the perfect time of year to release something so joyous!”

Adds producer Haun, “I first discovered the music of Natalie Douglas while browsing the CD section at Colony Music. I’m a big fan of Nina Simone, and Natalie had recorded a tribute to Nina at Birdland. I had to have the recording, and it did not disappoint! From there, I discovered her other music and became a big fan. I even planned a New Year’s Eve trip to New York just to see her perform live. I had always hoped for an opportunity to produce her and never thought it would happen, so to say this is a dream come true is not a cliché. It’s a very true and very cool reality.”

Douglas will preview selections from the recording during her 25th annual New Year’s Eve show December 31 in New York at Chelsea Table + Stage.

Click here for more information about the new recording.