The song of the day for Sunday, April 7, 2019, 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. This wonderful song was first recorded by Paul Whiteman with Billie Holiday on vocals. It’s a wonderful, classic Mercer lyric and the tune is lovely. In addition to this recording, this song has been recorded by Anita O’Day, Peggy Lee, Ella Fitzgerald, Shirley Horn, and Sonny Rollins.
About This Version
Tony Bennett recorded “Trav’lin’ Light” in 1996 for his album of songs associated with Billie Holiday, Tony Bennett On Holiday, released in 1997. Jorge Calendrelli did the very effective arrangement.
Trav’lin’ Light
Trav’lin’ Light, a song by Tony Bennett on Spotify
“Trav’lin’ Light,” as well as Tony Bennett On Holiday, is available from iTunes.
About Today
The great Billie Holiday was born on April 7, 1915. Nicknamed Lady Day by her friend Lester Young, she had a profound effect on jazz, which is still seen today with jazz singers. She modeled her singing on the instrumentalists, which gave her a deeper feeling for tempo and phrasing.
In honor of Lady Day, here’s her recording of “Trav’lin’ Light” with Paul Whiteman.
Trav’lin Light
Trav’lin Light, a song by Billie Holiday on Spotify
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