"I'll smash it with a hammer!"

And just when I was hoping we could get through these last few days of the year without losing any more greats...

Eartha Kitt. Damn.

She was a fine voice actress (her delivery of the post title is one of several reasons why I love The Emperor's New Groove) and a terrific singer. Her rendition of "Santa Baby" is, by far, the best. The song sounds inconsequential and annoying when covered by others, but her version oozes seduction. Don't believe me? Listen for yourself: