The song of the day for Wednesday, February 5, 2014 is Trav’lin’ Light.
About This Song
“Trav’lin’ Light” was written in 1942 by Trummy Young and Jimmy Mundy, with lyrics by Johnny Mercer. Billie Holiday and the Paul Whiteman Orchestra recorded this song the year it was written and it was very well received.
Additional recordings include those Peggy Lee, Anita O’Day, Ella Fitzgerald and Queen Latifah. And, of course, Tony Bennett.
About This Version
This may very well be the most beautiful Tony Bennett song that you’ve never heard. Mr. Bennett recorded it for his 1997 album of songs associated with Billie Holiday, On Holiday. Note that the picture of Miss Holiday used on the cover of the album was painted by Tony Bennett.
I had come across the Billie Holiday recording of this song and fell in love with it immediately. The melody is quite beautiful and the lyrics are classic Johnny Mercer.
This is a stunning arrangement, featuring Ralph Sharon with a nice and subdued orchestra. The album was arranged by Jorge Calandrelli and produced by Tony Bennett and Danny Bennett.
http://open.spotify.com/track/1qgbAv7Q5TY5IAEv03FzJ3
“Trav’lin’ Light,” as well as the album On Holiday, is available from iTunes.
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