The song of the day for Wednesday, November 16, 2022, is “While We’re Young.”
About This Song
“While We’re Young” was written by Alec Wilder and Morty Palitz, with lyrics by William Engvick, in 1944. It was first recorded in 1944 by the Fred Waring Singers and again in 1949 by Meredith Willson (who wrote The Music Man) and his Orchestra. Peggy Lee also recorded the song in 1949, but not to Wilder’s liking. Marion McPartland quotes Wilder as telling Miss Lee ‘The next time you come to the bridge (of the song), jump off!’ “While We’re Young” remains popular in the American songbook, having been recently recorded by Jane Monheit and Ben Sidron.
About This Version
In May 1977, Tony Bennett, with his trio, and Marian McPartland and her band (including Jimmy McPartland on cornet) played at the Statler Hilton in Buffalo, NY. In addition to singing, Bennett acted as emcee. The gig was released on Tony Bennett, The McPartlands and Friends Make Magnificent Music. It’s a nice mix of vocals and the instrumentals with Marian McPartland are really a joy.
“While We’re Young,” as well as The Complete Improv Recordings is available on Apple Music.
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