Billie Holiday's Haunting Masterpiece: "Wishing on the Moon"

Billie Holiday: Wishing On The Moon

by Donald Clarke

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11255 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	514 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE

In the annals of jazz music, few songs have captured the raw emotional power and enduring beauty of Billie Holiday's "Wishing on the Moon."

A Poignant Lyrical Tapestry

Written by Arthur Johnston and Dorothy Fields in 1934, the lyrics of "Wishing on the Moon" paint a vivid portrait of longing and unrequited love.

I'm wishing on the moon tonight To bring me luck in love I'm dreaming of the one I love Who's in my thoughts above

Holiday's achingly plaintive delivery brings the lyrics to life, conveying a sense of bittersweet longing and ethereal hope.

A Haunting Melody

The melody of "Wishing on the Moon" is equally haunting and unforgettable. Composed in the key of E flat major, it features a distinctive syncopated rhythm and a sweeping, descending phrase that perfectly complements the lyrics.

Holiday's vocal interpretation is a masterclass in jazz improvisation. She embellishes the melody with subtle nuances, phrasing, and ornamentation, creating a unique and deeply personal rendition that remains etched in the minds of listeners.

An Enduring Legacy

First recorded by Holiday in 1945, "Wishing on the Moon" has become one of the most enduring jazz standards of all time. Its timeless appeal has captivated countless musicians, who have interpreted and rearranged it in a myriad of ways.

From Ella Fitzgerald's soaring rendition to Frank Sinatra's intimate crooning, "Wishing on the Moon" has transcended musical genres, becoming a beloved classic that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

A Musical Tapestry of Heartbreak and Hope

In "Wishing on the Moon," Billie Holiday has created a musical tapestry that captures the raw emotions of heartbreak and the indomitable spirit of hope. Its poignant lyrics, haunting melody, and unforgettable vocal delivery make it a timeless masterpiece that speaks to the universal human experience of longing and love lost.

Whether performed in a smoky jazz club or heard on a vinyl record, "Wishing on the Moon" continues to enchant and inspire, leaving an enduring legacy as one of Billie Holiday's most haunting and unforgettable creations.

Billie Holiday: Wishing On The Moon

by Donald Clarke

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11255 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	514 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE