About the song
“Fly Me to the Moon,” performed by Frank Sinatra, is a song that has transcended time, becoming one of the most iconic jazz standards ever recorded. Originally written by Bart Howard in 1954, the song was first titled “In Other Words” before adopting its more familiar name. While many artists recorded it, Frank Sinatra’s 1964 version, arranged by the legendary Quincy Jones, stands out as the definitive rendition.
Sinatra’s recording of “Fly Me to the Moon” was included on his album *It Might as Well Be Swing*, a collaboration with the Count Basie Orchestra. This version brought a new, vibrant energy to the song with its swinging big band arrangement. Sinatra’s impeccable phrasing and charismatic delivery, combined with Basie’s tight, dynamic accompaniment, made it an instant classic. The song’s smooth, sophisticated vibe perfectly encapsulates the essence of the mid-1960s jazz scene.
Although “Fly Me to the Moon” did not achieve a top position on the Billboard charts, its cultural impact has been profound. The song became closely associated with the Apollo space missions, particularly Apollo 10 and Apollo 11. In fact, it was played on a cassette tape by astronaut Buzz Aldrin during the historic lunar landing of Apollo 11 in 1969, cementing its place in the annals of space exploration history.
The lyrics of “Fly Me to the Moon” exude a sense of romance and adventure, capturing the yearning to explore new frontiers, whether they be in love or in space. Sinatra’s smooth, confident voice brings these themes to life, making listeners feel as if they are soaring among the stars themselves. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its universal appeal and the timeless charm of Sinatra’s interpretation.
Over the decades, “Fly Me to the Moon” has been covered by countless artists, each adding their own flavor to the beloved standard. Yet, Sinatra’s version remains the gold standard, a perfect blend of style, sophistication, and musical excellence. For many, it is impossible to think of the song without hearing Sinatra’s unmistakable voice and the exhilarating swing of the Count Basie Orchestra.
In summary, “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra is more than just a song; it is a timeless piece of musical history. Its association with the excitement of the space age and its enduring romantic allure ensure that it continues to captivate listeners, old and new, making it a treasured part of the Great American Songbook.
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Lyrics
Fly me to the moon
Let me play among the stars
And let me see what spring is like on
A-Jupiter and Mars
In other words
Hold my hand
In other words
Baby, kiss me
Fill my heart with song
And let me sing forever more
You are all I long for
All I worship and adore
In other words
Please, be true
In other words
I love you
Fill my heart with song
Let me sing forever more
You are all I long for
All I worship and adore
In other words
Please, be true
In other words
In other words
I love
You