Composer

:

Billie Holiday

Average_duration

:

4:36

'God Bless the Child' is a jazz standard composed by Billie Holiday and Arthur Herzog Jr. The song was written in 1939 and was first recorded by Holiday on May 9, 1941, for the Okeh label. The song was released as a single and became one of Holiday's most popular and enduring songs. The song has a slow, bluesy tempo and is characterized by its simple melody and lyrics. The song's lyrics tell the story of a mother who has become successful and wealthy but has forgotten her roots and the struggles of her past. The chorus of the song, "God bless the child that's got his own," is a reminder that material wealth is not the only measure of success and that one should never forget where they came from. The song is divided into two main sections, with the first section featuring a slow, mournful melody and the second section featuring a more upbeat, swinging melody. The song is also notable for its use of a repeating bass line and a simple, repetitive piano accompaniment. 'God Bless the Child' has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross, and Blood, Sweat & Tears. The song has also been featured in several films and television shows, including Goodfellas and The Sopranos. Overall, 'God Bless the Child' is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its simple melody and powerful lyrics serve as a reminder of the importance of family, community, and the struggles that shape us into who we are.

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