Just heard that song again!
I used to babysit for a couple who were able to get the Jack Paar show on their TV. As we were unable to receive it at our house, I looked forward to babysitting their children and having the chance to watch the Paar show and see the famous, infamous and quirky guests he seemed to attract. Even Senator John F. Kennedy appeared on the show when he was a Presidential candidate. Great guests! Loved that show!
Oscar Levant was a regular visitor. One night, after Jack and Oscar exchanged some witty repartee, Jack asked Oscar to play “Blame It On My Youth” on the piano and even though he was only able to play a part of the song, it has stayed with me. If you are not familiar with this beautifully written song, co-written by Oscar Levant and Edward Heyman in 1934, you are really missing out on a wonderful piece of music.
Hmm…maybe this was the very beginning of my love for Jazz?
Not until some time much later did I hear the entire song. It has been “covered” by Jane Monheit in an album she recorded a couple of years ago. Chet Baker, Karrin Allyson, Kurt Elling and Jamie Cullum to name a few, have also covered the song. The lyrics are beautiful but seem sort of sad to me. Have a listen to Jaimie Cullum sing this lovely song. I hope you like it as much as I do.
It’s really high on my “songs to take to a desert island.” I always crank up the volume to listen to it!
