Composer

:

Billy Strayhorn

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Popular

Compose Date

:

1939

Average_duration

:

4:16

'Lush Life' is a jazz standard composed by Billy Strayhorn in 1938. The song was first recorded by Strayhorn himself in 1948, but it gained popularity after being recorded by many other jazz musicians, including Duke Ellington, Nat King Cole, and John Coltrane. The song is known for its melancholic and introspective lyrics, which describe the life of a man who has lived a glamorous and exciting life, but is now left alone and disillusioned. The melody is equally haunting, with its slow and mournful pace, and its use of dissonant chords and unexpected harmonies. 'Lush Life' is divided into three distinct sections, each with its own melody and mood. The first section is a slow and introspective ballad, with the lyrics describing the protagonist's past experiences and regrets. The second section is more upbeat and swinging, with the lyrics describing the protagonist's attempts to forget his past and move on. The final section returns to the slow and mournful pace of the first section, with the lyrics describing the protagonist's ultimate acceptance of his fate. The song is notable for its use of complex harmonies and chord progressions, which were unusual for popular music at the time. Strayhorn's use of dissonance and unexpected chord changes gives the song a unique and haunting quality, which has made it a favorite among jazz musicians and fans alike. Overall, 'Lush Life' is a masterpiece of jazz composition, with its complex harmonies, haunting melody, and introspective lyrics. It remains one of the most beloved and enduring jazz standards of all time, and a testament to the genius of Billy Strayhorn.

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