The Year of Tony Bennett

An Appreciation of the Art and Music of Tony Bennett

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Song of the Day: Don’t Get Around Much Anymore

The song of the day for Monday, July 15, 2013 is “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore.”

About This Song

This great song was written in 1940 by Duke Ellington, with lyrics by Bob Russell added in 1942. The original title from 1940 was “Never No Lament,” but was retitled in 1942 when the lyrics were added. Tony Bennett has recorded duets of this song with Michael Bublé (Duets II) and Miguel Bosé (Viva Duets).

About This Version

Today’s version is from the 1967 album Tony Makes It Happen! I love the sound of this album, which was arranged and conducted by the great Marion Evans, who is working with Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga for their upcoming jazz album.

http://open.spotify.com/track/491ebIOXElVbEqQgzVILO2
“Don’t Get Around Much Anymore,” as well as the entire Tony Makes It Happen! album, is available from iTunes.

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Song of the Day: Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me

As we continue our birthday tribute to Duke Ellington, the song of the day for May 2, 2013 is Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me.

About This Song

Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me was written by Ellington in 1940, with lyrics added later (as usual with Ellington songs) by Bob Russell. The song originated as Concerto for Cootie to feature the trumpet playing of Cootie Williams. Ellington’s 1944 recording of the song with the lyrics was a hit on both the R&B and popular charts.

Many great artists have recorded this song, including Louis Armstrong, Nat King Cole, Sammy Davis Jr., Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Krall and Lena Horne.

About This Version

Tony Bennett recorded this song for his 1999 Bennett Sings Ellington: Hot & Cool album.
http://open.spotify.com/track/6ShVCRrFSqycfFkMpw7TQo
Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me, as well as the entire Bennett Sings Ellington: Hot & Cool, is available from iTunes.