Introduction
To hear the vibrant energy and polished harmonies of The Supremes, fronted by the unmistakable voice of Diana Ross, breathe new life into the classics of Irving Berlin is truly a treat. Berlin, a titan of American songwriting, gifted us with an astonishing catalog of tunes that have become deeply ingrained in the fabric of our cultural consciousness. Think of the sheer breadth of his work: from the patriotic fervor of “God Bless America” to the romantic yearning of “Always,” the playful charm of “Puttin’ on the Ritz” to the festive cheer of “White Christmas.” His songs are more than just melodies and lyrics; they are snapshots of American life, reflections of our hopes, dreams, and celebrations.
Background
This medley, therefore, is not just a collection of songs; it’s a respectful nod to a songwriting legend by one of the most iconic vocal groups of the 20th century. The Supremes, with their signature blend of Motown sophistication and infectious pop sensibility, bring a fresh perspective to these enduring compositions.
Their harmonies, tight and shimmering, provide a luxurious backdrop for Diana Ross‘s distinctive vocal style – at once elegant and soulful. She navigates the melodies with a grace that honors the original intent while imbuing them with her own unique flair.
One can only imagine the care and artistry that went into crafting this medley. Selecting which Irving Berlin gems to include, arranging them in a way that flows seamlessly and maintains the integrity of each individual song, and then having The Supremes deliver their impeccable vocal performance – it’s a testament to the collaborative spirit of musical excellence. It speaks to a time when artists and songwriters held a deep reverence for the craft, striving for a level of artistry that transcended fleeting trends.
For those familiar with both Irving Berlin‘s original recordings and The Supremes‘ extensive discography, this medley offers a fascinating point of comparison. How do their interpretations differ? What nuances do they bring to these familiar tunes? Does the Motown energy infuse a new sense of rhythm and groove? These are the questions that might linger in the minds of seasoned music lovers, adding another layer of appreciation to the listening experience.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
My thoughts go back to a heavenly dance
A moment of bliss we spent
Our hearts were filled with a song of romance
As into the night we went
And sang to our hearts’ contentThe song is ended
But the melody lingers on
You and the song are gone
But the melody lingers onThe night was splendid
And the melody seemed to say
“summer will pass away
Take your happiness while you may”There ‘neath the light of the moon
We sang a love song that ended too soonThe moon descended
And I found with the break of dawn
You and the song had gone
But the melody lingers on