Recorded on the stage of the former Capitol Theatre in New York, this album was conceived to capture the feeling of a live concert, but with the technical perfection of a studio. Frank Sinatra worked with arranger Don Costa and a 73-piece orchestra, using advanced stereo recording techniques for the time.
The repertoire includes songs from Broadway musicals and films, such as 'I Have Dreamed' from 'The King and I' and 'The Sweetest Sounds' from 'No Strings'. The album reached number 6 on the Billboard 200 chart and was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Vocal Performance, Male.
Despite its title, it was not recorded before a live audience, but the atmosphere of a concert was simulated. It is considered one of Sinatra's most ambitious albums for its massive orchestral production and immersive sound.