‘Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band’ Turns 50

The group’s self-titled debut album drew on big-band swing and tropical rhythms to craft a danceable, high-gloss sound.

The seven love songs on Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band feature melodramatic storylines, and though the album has a strong dance feel, it defies category and remains a cult classic. Dr. Buzzard climbed to No. 22 on the Billboard 200, helped significantly by the hit single “Cherchez La Femme,” which peaked at No. 27 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. …