Happy Birthday to Vicente Fernández, born on February 17, 1940. In honor of his birthday, we feature his wonderful duet with Tony Bennett, Return To Me (Regresa A Mi), as the song of the day for Sunday, February 17, 2013.

About Return To Me

When I first heard the recording of this song, I thought to myself how nice it was to include a traditional ranchero song on Viva Duets. I was completely in error, however. Return to Me was written in 1957 by Carmen Lombardo (brother of bandleader Guy Lombardo) and Danny DiMinno. In January 1958, Dean Martin did the first recording of the song and the song still remains associated with Dean Martin. In fact, the second box set of Dean Martin was entitled Return to Me.

About This Version

This is perhaps my favorite song from the Viva Duets album. The arrangement is so traditionally Mexican and music beautifully performed. There is also something quite extraordinary about these two great singers working together. Both are legends, not only in their own countries, but all over the world. It is a privilege to hear these two great men sing this beautiful song  together.

Regresa A Mi, as well as the full Viva Duets album, is available from iTunes.

Tony traveled to the Fernández ranch Guadalajara to make this recording. This charming video recounts the session and the visit to this very beautiful place.