Where stands the music of Chet Baker with you?

Marginal talent? Charlie Parker and Jerry Mulligan didn't think so. As for his singing, well, I wouldn't try to convince anyone, but I've always liked it a lot, even in his later years, when you could hear his dentures whistling.

This has been an interesting thread, opinions vary significantly(as it does with components).
Unsound, I same as you don`t care for his vocals, but flat trumpet tone? Chet IMO had a beautiful and rich tone.Other examples of good trumpet tone were Art Farmer,Clifford Brown and Lee Morgan and currently Nicholas Payton.
Chet did`nt have flawless technique but he sure could convey the essence of a song as well as anyone,beautiful player.Just listen to his version of "It Never Entered My Mind".

I'm with Stewie on this one. I actually do enjoy his singing. But I do have to say that I've always hated singers who try to do too much (especially those who don't also play an instrument). As for his trumpet playing, his work with Gerry Mulligan was great, and pairing him with Stan Getz is just wonderful. Of course this is just how I feel about his music. I completely understand those who don't get him.

Jazzerdave,
It has nothing to do with not getting him. Some think he was a mediocre talent, simple as that!

How many of you who don't like his trumpet playing ever played any jazz yourself (more seriously than just in a high school band)? I'm just curious if former musicians might like him more than those with a listening-only background.