As we continue with The Tony Bennett 1950s Hit Parade, the song of the day for Monday, January 7, 2012 is The Boulevard of Broken Dreams.
About The Boulevard of Broken Dreams
The Boulevard of Broken Dreams was written in 1933 by Harry Warren, with lyrics by Al Dubin. The song was written with for the 1934 film, Moulin Rouge, and the song, as well as the film, was set in Paris. It was first sung in the film by Constance Bennett; the first recording was made by Deane Janis with Hal Kemp’s orchestra in 1933. Significant recordings include those by Bing Crosby and an instrumental version by Art Tatum.
About This Version
Like the version of Fascinatin’ Rhythm we featured a few weeks ago, The Boulevard of Broken Dreams was first recorded as a demonstration disc by Leslie Records in 1949. Unfortunately, no recordings of this demo disc still exist.
This recording is the song that got Tony Bennett his contract with Columbia in 1950. Mitch Miller had heard the recording and offered a contract to Mr. Bennett, sight unseen.
This version was recorded in April, 1950 and was released in May of the same year. It was arranged and conducted by Marty Manning and produced by Mitch Miller.
The Boulevard of Broken Dreams, as well as the full Columbia Singles: Volume 1, is available from iTunes.