A Tribute to Frank Sinatra

And now, the end is here 

And so I face the final curtain 

My friend, I'll say it clear 

I'll state my case, of which I'm certain 

I've lived a life that's full 

I traveled each and ev'ry highway 

And more, much more than this, I did it my way 

Frank Sinatra, “My Way"

Frank Sinatra 1947
en.wikipedia.org

"My Way" is often quoted as the most covered song in history. The version written by Paul Anka and sung by the popular Frank Sinatra is not the initial song and lyrics. The original French song "Comme d'habitude" was composed in 1967 by Claude François and Jacques Revaux. The lyrics by Claude François and Gilles Thibault had originally been written in English titled "For Me." Paul Anka's English lyrics are unrelated to the original French song or earlier English lyrics. He was inspired having heard the song performed by Claude Francois while on holiday in the south of France.

André Rieu 
en.wikipedia.org

Featured below is a wonderful tribute to Frank Sinatra performed by André Rieu and his Johann Strauss Orchestra. What is particularly poignant toward the end are inserts of immigrants, both young and old alike, coming into Ellis Island to start a new life: just hard working people trying to better themselves and help others. These were the kind of immigrants that enriched the country with their diligence and appreciation of an opportunity for a successful life without trying to change their adopted country.

André Rieu doesn't often play his violin through an entire musical piece, but he does for this performance. He plays a 1667 Stradivarius violin. It is suggested to watch and listen to this performance in full screen. Turn the volume up and enjoy the wondrous music.

An added plus as we approach. . .

Something in your eyes was so inviting
Something in your smile was so exciting
Something in my heart told me I must have you…

Frank Sinatra, “Strangers In The Night”

Frank Sinatra sang from the heart and put his soul into his music. Another of his great songs is Strangers in the Night. This was featured recently on Arlen Shahverdyan. Author's Blog. Arlen is Armenian so be sure to scroll down to his English versions About Love and About Song. Do leave Arlen a comment and let him know Awakenings sent you!

Are you a Sinatra fan? What is your favorite tune?

And the music goes on beating to the rhythm of the changing times...