Song of the Day: In A Mellow Tone

The song of the day for Sunday, April 17, 2016 is “In A Mellow Tone.”

About This Song

Duke Ellington wrote “In A Mellow Tone” in 1939, with lyrics by Milt Gabler.

“In A Mellow Tone” was based on the 1917 song “Rose Room” by Art Hickman and Harry Williams. The song is a favorite of both vocal and instrumental jazz performers, including Tony Bennett, Paul Gonsalves, Oscar Peterson, Coleman Hawkins, Ella Fitzgerald and Annie Ross.

About This Version

Tony Bennett recorded “In A Mellow Tone” in 1999 for his album Tony Bennett Sings Ellington: Hot & Cool. It’s a terrific rendition.

“In A Mellow Tone,” as well as Bennett Sings Ellington: Hot & Cool, is available from iTunes.

Here’s Duke playing on a nice instrumental of “In A Mellow Tone.”