"All the Things You Are" is a popular song from the 1939 musical Very Warm for May, with music by Jerome Kern and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II. It has been recorded by numerous artists and has become a jazz standard. It is said to be one of the most recorded songs in history.
Jerome Kern
Jerome Kern was a prominent composer of American popular music in the early 20th century. He was born in New York City in 1885 and began his career as a songwriter in Tin Pan Alley. Kern wrote numerous hit songs, including "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes," "The Way You Look Tonight," and "Ol' Man River."
Oscar Hammerstein II
Oscar Hammerstein II was a lyricist and librettist who collaborated with many of the leading composers of his time. He was born in New York City in 1895 and began his career as a writer of operettas. Hammerstein wrote lyrics for numerous hit songs, including "Ol' Man River," "Some Enchanted Evening," and "The Sound of Music."
Collaboration
Kern and Hammerstein collaborated on several musicals, including Show Boat, which is considered a landmark of American musical theater. All the Things You Are was written for their musical Very Warm for May, which opened on Broadway in November 1939. The song was introduced by Hiram Sherman and Frances Mercer.
Composition
All the Things You Are is a ballad with a complex harmonic structure. The song has been praised for its sophisticated melody and chord changes. It was written in the key of Ab with a 32-bar AABA form. The song's bridge has been particularly admired for its descending chromatic harmonies.
Recordings
All the Things You Are has been recorded by numerous artists, including Frank Sinatra, Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, and Art Tatum. The song has become a jazz standard and is often played at jam sessions and gigs. It has been included in many jazz fake books and is considered a must-know tune for any aspiring jazz musician.
Legacy
All the Things You Are has become a beloved song among jazz musicians and fans. Its sophisticated melody and harmonies have made it a challenging and rewarding tune to play. The song has also been used in numerous films, including The Fabulous Baker Boys, The Bridges of Madison County, and Sweet and Lowdown.
Conclusion
All the Things You Are is a classic song from the American musical theater. Its complex harmonies and sophisticated melody have made it a favorite among jazz musicians and fans. The song has been recorded by many artists and has become a jazz standard. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the talent of its composers, Jerome Kern and Oscar Hammerstein II.