Mr. Bennett has recorded (to my knowledge) three versions of this song. All vastly different from each other.
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Long Ago and Far Away 1958 with Frank DeVol and his Orchestra |
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Recorded in 1997 with the Ralph Sharon Trio. Appears on Rarities, Outtakes and Other Delights, Vol. 2 and Tony Bennett Sings the Ultimate American Songbook 2007 |
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Duets II 2011 Sung with Faith Hill. With Lee Musiker, Gray Sargent, Marshall Wood, and Harold Jones Arranged and conducted by Jorge Calandrelli |
It’s no secret that I tend to prefer the recordings by Mr. Bennett with a smaller group and that I often prefer the later recordings over the earlier recordings. Therefore, it’s no surprise that of these three versions, I most love the 1997 version where he’s accompanied by the Ralph Sharon Trio.
The original version and the Duets II version with Faith Hill are lovely, sweet and optimistic. Tony’s optimism is one of my favorite things about his singing. In both of these versions, I feel that these lovers will always be together and that they will always remember the way you look tonight.
In the 1997 version, there is a deep and profound sadness and this sweet and happy song is turned into a ballad. This version makes me feel that the singer knows that the relationship may be ending and that this very moment and they way she looks tonight may be the last and and most important memory that he will have. It’s sad and moving and full of love. But love, as we know, isn’t always happy.
The Way You Look Tonight
This song was originally written for 1936’s Swing Time and was sung (beautifully) by Fred Astaire. It won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
Music: Jerome Kern Lyrics: Dorothy FieldsSome day, when I’m awfully low,
When the world is cold,
I will feel a glow just thinking of you
And the way you look tonight.
Oh but you’re lovely, with your smile so warm
And your cheeks so soft,
There is nothing for me but to love you,
And the way you look tonight.
With each word your tenderness grows,
Tearing my fear apart
And that laugh that wrinkles your nose,
Touches my foolish heart.
Lovely, never, never change.
Keep that breathless charm.
Won’t you please arrange it ?
Cause I love you, just the way you look tonight.
Just the way you look tonight.
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