The song of the day for Saturday, July 29, 2017 is “Return to Me.”

About This Song

“Return To Me” was written in 1957 by Carmen Lombardo and Danny DiMinno. Dean Martin recorded this song in January 1958 and to this day, the song remains strongly identified with Martin. “Return To Me” was featured in a 2000 film of the same name.

About This Version

Tony Bennett and Vicente Fernandez recorded “Return To Me,” or “Regresa a Mi” in Spanish, in 2012 for the album Viva Duets. Having never known the Dean Martin recording, I was gobsmacked when I learned that this song wasn’t a traditional Mexican ballad. The arrangement and performances were superb.The song was recorded in Fernandez’ studio at his ranch in Guadalajara and features his musicians as well.

“Return to Me,” as well as Viva Duets, is available from iTunes.

Just for a comparison, here’s Dean Martin’s recording of “Return To Me.”

About Today

I’m very pleased to present the 2012 video of Tony Bennett and Vicente Fernandez recording the song as well as some lovely footage of the ranch.