The song of the day for Friday, October 9, 2015 is “While We’re Young.”

About This Song

Today’s song, “While We’re Young,” was written in 1944 by Alec Wilder and Morty Palitz (music) and William Engvick (lyrics). 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 that ‘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

This song was recorded live in May 1977 with Marian and Jimmy McPartland and other musicians. It was released on Improv as Tony Bennett/The McPartlands and Friends Make Magnificent Music. It was the last album released on Improv.

“While We’re Young,” as well as The Complete Improv Recordings, is available from iTunes.