There are countless renderings of Summertime; it's one of those classics that has stood the test of time and multiple genres. And nearly every time another artist attempts this, it has been a treat worth your time.
While I have been listening to one jazz version or the other of this track for ages, it was only late last year--past the summer, unfortunately--that a friend introduced me to this particular version (We'd gotten into an argument about whose pick was better. I was happy to lose). Since then, I have longed for summer to come so that I could really and truly feel Satchmo's voice.
Well, summer is here. And it isn't ideal, but the sentiment stands, much like in the track itself.
I love Satchmo and Ella Fitzgerald is always a treat. Together on this track, they paint a distinct image of the American South that the lyrics capture so well anyway. It reminds me of Tennessee Williams' Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, probably because Big Daddy is rich and the play is set within his vast cotton empire. There is a sense of decadence and casual surrender.
In the hopes that your summer is well on its way, consider surrendering yourself to Louis and Ella's voices.
You can learn more about Louis Armstrong here:
You can learn more about Ella Fitzgerald here:
About the curator - Aarushi Aggarwal
Aarushi is a senior at college and is majoring in history and international relations. Her music library is as much home to jazz as it is to Indian classical. Her passion for discovering new music far supersedes other equally important things like finishing assignments on time. She loves dogs, coffee and chocolate.