The song of the day for Monday, May 19, 2025, is “Day Dream.”
About This Song
“Day Dream” was written by Billy Strayhorn with lyrics by John LaTouche, in 1941 (though Duke Ellington was also listed as the co-composer on the first recording of the song, it is widely accepted to be written by Strayhorn). 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” on May 25, 1964. “Day Dream” is one of five song Bennett recorded with Herbie Hancock (piano), Stan Getz (tenor sax), Ron Carter (bass), and Elvin Jones (drums). I’m sure I’m not the only one who thinks a Tony Bennett album with these musicians would have been extraordinary. They were released on the Rarities, Outtakes & Other Delights, Vol. 1 disc included in the Tony Bennett Complete Collection box set released in 2011.
“Day Dream,” as well as Rarities, Outtakes & Other Delights, Vol. 1, is available on Apple Music.
Here’s the 1941 recording of “Day Dream,” with Strayhorn and Johnny Hodges.