The song of the day for Monday, October 9, 2023, is “These Foolish Things.”
About This Song
“These Foolish Things” was written by Jack Strachey and Eric Maschwitz (writing as Holt Marvell for contractual reasons). Although written and first performed in 1936, the song was not an immediate hit. In fact, Maschwitz’ agent refused to publish the song and so Maschwitz himself did. There were several fine recordings in the 1930s, including one by Billie Holiday with the Teddy Wilson Orchestra and Benny Goodman. In the 1950s, the song became even more popular, with recordings by Artie Shaw, Nat King Cole, Art Pepper, and Johnny Hartman.”These Foolish Things” ranks #28 on jazzstandards.com and is still widely played and recorded.
About This Version
Tony Bennett recorded “These Foolish Things” in June 1996 for his tribute album to Billie Holiday, Tony Bennett On Holiday, released in 1997. It was arranged by Jorge Calandrelli.
“These Foolish Things,” as well as Tony Bennett On Holiday, is available on Apple Music.
Here’s Billie Holiday’s recording with The Teddy Wilson Orchestra, from 1936:
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