Song of the Day: By Myself

The song of the day for Sunday, May 31, 2015 is “By Myself.”

About This Song

“By Myself” was written in 1937 by Arthur Schwartz (music) and Howard Diets (lyrics) for the musical Between the Devil, where it was introduced by Jack Buchanan. It was used again in 1957 for The Band Wagon, which starred Fred Astaire and Cyd Charisse. Jack Buchanan co-starred in The Band Wagon, but this time it was Fred Astaire’s song.

About This Version

I love that Bennett ends the album with this song. It’s practically sung a cappella, with the drums tapping out the dance rhythm. After a long of run of energetic dance numbers, the entertainer is along … as the song fades out. It’s lovely and very touching. I think it’s interesting that out of all the songs on this album, this is the one number that Fred Astaire did not dance to, but sang only.

About Today

Today marks the end of our tribute to Tony Bennett’s 1993 album Steppin’ Out, featuring songs associated with Fred Astaire. It’s been a treat for me; the singing, the dancing, the brilliance of both Tony Bennett and Fred Astaire. I’ll be announcing a new album of the month tomorrow, but for now I’ll listen to Tony Bennett wistfully singing By Myself.

“By Myself,” as well as Steppin’ Out, is available from iTunes.

And here’s Mr. Astaire singing today’s song …