The song of the day for Friday, November 29, 2024, is “Day Dream.”
About Today
We remember Billy Strayhorn, born on November 29, 1915. Strayhorn was an American jazz composer, pianist, lyricist, and arranger who collaborated with bandleader and composer Duke Ellington for nearly three decades. His compositions include “Take the ‘A’ Train,” “Chelsea Bridge,” and “Lush Life”.
About This Song
“Day Dream” was written by Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn, with lyrics by John LaTouche. Acknowledged to have been written solely by Strayhorn, “Day Dream” is a lovely song with a strong Strayhorn touch, enhanced by the thoughtful lyrics by John LaTouche. The first recording was in 1941 and featured Johnny Hodges on saxophone and Billy Strayhorn on piano. Other notable recordings include this one by Tony Bennett, Betty Carter, Ella Fitzgerald, and Sarah Vaughan.
About This Version
Tony Bennett recorded “Day Dream” in May 1999 for his album Bennett Sings Ellington Hot & Cool. Jorge Calandrelli wrote the arrangement.
“Day Dream,” as well as Bennett Sings Ellington Hot & Cool, is available on Apple Music.
Here’s the 1941 recording of “Day Dream” with Johnny Hodges and Billy Strayhorn:
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