The song of the day for Thursday, April 9, 2015 is “She’s Funny That Way.”

About This Song

“She’s Funny That Way” was written in 1928 by Charles N. Daniels, writing as Neil Moret, (music) and Richard Whiting (lyrics). Richard Whiting is the father of the noted singer Margaret Whiting. The song has been widely recorded over the years; Billie Holiday’s versions are among the most popular.

About This Version

Tony Bennett first recorded this song in 1967 for Tony Makes It Happen!, arranged by Marion Evans. Today’s version is, of course, from the 1997 Tony Bennett On Holiday. our album of the month in our tribute to Billie Holiday. The arrangement by Jorge Calendrelli focuses primarily on Ralph Sharon’s piano, with sweet and subtle strings in the background. It is a wonderful sound for this album.

“She’s Funny That Way,” as well as Tony Bennett On Holiday, is available from iTunes.

About Billie Holiday’s Version

Billie Holiday recorded “He’s Funny That Way” several times between 1937 and 1954. We’ve heard some of very early work so far this month, so thought we could move to later in her career. The session for this recording was held on July 27, 1952 and is listed as Billie Holiday and Her Lads of Joy. The lads include Oscar Peterson (piano), Joe Newman (trumpet), Paul Quinchette (tenor sax), Freddie Green (guitar), Ray Brown (bass) and Gus Johnson (drums).

One of the reasons I love this version so much is that she sings the verse, which I had never heard before until the recording. I’m a sucker for the verse — it makes the chorus all the sweeter.

“He’s Funny That Way,” as well as Lady In Autumn: The Best of the Verve Years, is available from iTunes.