They Write the Songs: Jule Styne

Barry’s purpose in this ten-part program on BBC Radio 2 is to share knowledge about these great composers who have given the world some of the most well-known and -loved music in history, but I’m sorry to say that in this week’s episode focusing on English=born Jule Styne, Barry Manilow himself stole the show, twice!

First, Barry told us of a conversation he’d had with Jule Styne years ago. In asking which of his songs he’d suggest him to cover, Mr. Styne answered immediately, “I Fall in Love Too Easily.” Frank Sinatra had recorded it for the movie Anchors Away, but Barry gave it a shot, placing it on a jazz album he’s yet to release. Singing and playing piano and bass; what a delight and privilege to hear this gorgeous song for the first time ever played publicly. Barry’s rendition is smooth, jazzy, and sultry; he says, “Pretty sexy, I think.” That is an understatement! I speak from experience saying that if you relate to the lyrics, life can be complicated!

Later, Barry shared the story of his Grandpa Joe taking him to a 25-cent “record your own voice” booth, back when he was a little guy with no aspirations of a career in music (thank heavens Grandpa knew better–just proves you should listen to your elders!). Barry always has something new to surprise us with. His rendition of “Papa Won’t You Dance With Me” by 3- or 4-year-old “baby” Barry is charming, clear, and spot-on impeccable coming from the sweet voice that has matured to magnificent.

I tweeted that “if ‘America’s Got Talent’ was on 60+ years ago, Barry would have won, hands down.” It gives me goosebumps to think a baby could have that much natural talent, which could have gone unnoticed if not for the love and keen insight of his family and the passion for music Barry Manilow has spent his life devoted to! If Barry has more of these recordings lying around, I hope one day he’ll release an album: Baby Barry Manilow Sings. It would sell big in a New York minute.

Okay, back to the broadcast. As soon as I heard the overture to “Funny Girl” I had to smile—God I need to visit New York soon—this has got to be my all-time favorite show and movie, starring my favorite female performer, Barbra Streisand! As Barry sets the scene, theater lights dimming, music getting bigger and more exciting, Ms. Streisand entering the stage, you can’t help but feel the excitement of the moment. His enthusiasm is contagious.

As Barry tells us about Mr. Styne, his songs, shows, and life, we get to hear big band music, singers, and songs we’ve not heard in years. My favorites were “Diamond’s Are a Girl’s Best Friend” (you’ve got that right, not that I have any), “Sunday,” and “Time After Time.” Barry calls it a “perfect pop song, possibly his favorite.” I’d love to hear him sing it.

There is nothing, absolutely nothing, not to enjoy! Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Carol Channing, Gracie Fields, Marilyn Monroe, Judy Garland, Ethel Merman, even Nicole Kidman, and yes Barry Manilow…does it get any better? Add to that Barry’s live snippets and dissection of composition and you’ve got a perfect hour.

In his research, Barry tells us he couldn’t find anything negative in the life of Jule Styne. “He was a great guy, a musician’s musician…he just was a great musician and a great songwriter.” Sounds very much like the musician behind the mic sharing this knowledge!

Next week, tune in for Part 7 of They Write the Songs, focusing on Rodgers and Hart.

Posted in They Write the Songs by Helen Holdun

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