The Al Jolson Project – I’m Just Wild About Harry

Posted on February 17, 2017 by Ed Zwirn

I’m Just Wild About Harry is a song written in 1921 with lyrics by Noble Sissle and music by Eubie Blake for the Broadway show Shuffle Along. “I’m Just Wild About Harry” was the most popular number of the production, which was the first financially successful Broadway play to have African-American writers and an all African-American cast. The song broke what had been a taboo against musical and stage depictions of romantic love between African-Americans.

Night and Day: Witchcraft

Posted on January 25, 2017 by Ed Zwirn

Witchcraft: Larry DeAngelo sings this popular song from 1957 composed by Cy Coleman with lyrics by Carolyn Leigh. It was released as a single by Frank Sinatra, and reached number twenty in the U.S., spending sixteen weeks on the charts.

Back In Your Own Backyard

Posted on January 17, 2017 by Ed Zwirn

Back in Your Own Backyard

This song was written by Al Jolson, Billy Rose, and Dave Dreyer and first recorded in 1928. It has since been covered by many others including Patti Page, Billie Holiday and Bing Crosby. And now it is part of the Al Jolson Project with Larry DeAngelo and Friends.

Back In Your Own Backyard – listen or purchase this song.

BONUS TRACK: When I’m Not Near the Girl I Love

Posted on January 11, 2017 by Ed Zwirn

An original sentiment?

Long before Stephen Stills enthralled Hippiedom with Love the One You’re With, Burton Lane penned a sexier (some might say ‘sexist’) take on the opportunistic aspect of love. Larry DeAngelo sings this delightful song written for 1947’s Finian’s Rainbow. A must-listen for all those who really are naive enough to believe that absence makes the heart grow fonder and that there may be anything new under the sun. Homework assignment: Compare the Hippie version to the 1947 song. (Dedicated to Hank Pritchard).

“When I’m Not Near the Girl I Love” – listen or purchase now