Moanin' Low, Harry James and his Orchestra

Published in 1929 with music by Ralph Rainger and lyrics by Howard Dietz, "Moanin' Low" originally made its debut in the musical revue, "The Little Show" sung by Libby Holman. Nine years later Dorothy Baker's novel, "Young Man with a Horn," based loosely on the life of 1920's jazz cornetist Bix Beiderbecke, was published, and in 1950 Warner Brothers produced a film by the same name starring Kirk Douglas, Doris Day, Lauren Bacall, and Hoagy Carmichael. Included in the soundtrack was "Moanin' Low," weaving its way in and out of this film like a silver thread. It is dramatic and passionate, running a gamut of emotions, and with a distinctly urban feel that brings to mind the last few years of this beloved musician's short and tragic life. It is Bix that I had in mind, along with fellow musician and friend, Hoagy Carmichael, as I sat down to create a tribute to this memorable recording brought to life by the great Harry James. The styles of these musical artists were light years apart, but it is Bix that I think of every time that I hear this particular rendition. Scenes of New York City in the 1920's are prominently represented here - the place where Bix resided for a large portion of his later years. Frames and movie stills from the Warner Brothers film are also incorporated, although it is important to acknowledge that the film was never intended as an authentic biographical portrait of Bix. There are, however, if one looks and listens closely, parallels. I am of the opinion that Hoagy is to thank for this, for documentation shows that his input was both considered and utilized in the production of the film.

Видео Moanin' Low, Harry James and his Orchestra канала Debbie White