Welcome to Birthday Thursdays here in The Rhythm Section. Each week I will feature someone from the world of music whose birthday falls on that day. There won’t be any chit chat from me, no facts and figures – just some great tunes (and an occasional surprise). Check it out right here every Thursday and enjoy the music.
Happy Birthday to Johnny Mandel (Composer/Arranger) Born November 23, 1925 in New York City
“The Shadow Of Your Smile” composed by Johnny Mandel
“My Valentine” arranged by Johnny Mandel for Paul McCartney
OK, I admit it; I struggled a bit with Mr. Bump’s Name That Tune on Sunday and was totally stumped by his post yesterday for Breaktime Whodunnit. That said, I don’t feel the least bit guilty for today’s post as I take you “youngsters” on a little trip back in time.
Now I’m pretty sure I’m correct when I say that the majority of you reading this right now are not part of the Baby Boomer generation (those born between 1946 and 1964). You probably won’t know this song or who the singer is and it’s doubtful you’ll be able to answer the question of the day. But you know what? That doesn’t matter. A great song and a great singer are timeless and no one’s keeping score as to who answers the most questions correctly. It’s all about fun!
We’re going back to 1952 with a sentimental tune called “You Belong To Me”. The version you’re about to hear is the most popular interpretation of this ballad done by a chanteuse by the name of Jo Stafford, one of the biggest stars of her time.
Jo Stafford had a lovely voice, smooth and silky as warm bourbon. Her rendition of this song is my favorite; here it is now for your enjoyment.
I thought that was really nice!
This song reminds me of those old war movies such as “From Here To Eternity” or “The Longest Day”. You can imagine soldiers listening to a tune like this, huddled around a radio on their bunks, and someone saying “Smoke ‘em if you got ‘em”.
I’m going out on a limb now when I say one, may two of you will know the answer to this question but what the hell … as I said, it’s all about having fun! Here goes:
Can you name the doo-wop group who had a hit revival of this song in 1962?
I’ll have the answer for you next week.
Hope you enjoyed the trip. And speaking of trips, get ready for another great adventure tomorrow with Deb.
Thanks for stopping by and going back in time with me!
Welcome back to In The Groove. Hope you’re all doing fine and are looking forward to another great song and video.
There really isn’t too much I can tell you about today’s performer that you don’t already know so I’m going to concentrate on the song.
“Can’t Help Falling in Love” was recorded by Elvis Presley in 1961 for his album “Blue Hawaii”; it is also featured in his movie of the same name.
This beautiful tune has been covered by many artists and was listed as one of the greatest songs of all time by Rolling Stone. According to a 2020 survey, the song is the most popular choice for couples as the first dance at their wedding.
Now’s the perfect time to take that special person in your life by the hand and dance to “Can’t Help Falling In Love”. Here is The King:
That certainly was beautiful and I’m taking bets that many of you might be able to guess the question of the day:
What was the first dance at your wedding? If you’re engaged, what song have you chosen for your first dance? Perhaps you’re neither married nor engaged; just name your favorite romantic song to dance to. Mine is “Something” by George Harrison which was the first dance at my wedding.
Thanks for getting In The Groove with me; I hope you’ve been enjoying the songs and videos throughout The Rhythm Section.
Join us tomorrow for another musical journey with Deb. Have a great day!
The Elephant's Trunk 