Composer

:

Victor Young

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1944

Average_duration

:

4:40

"Stella by Starlight" is a popular jazz standard composed by Victor Young in 1944. The song was written for the film "The Uninvited" and was originally titled "Stella." The lyrics were later added by Ned Washington, and the song was renamed "Stella by Starlight." The song premiered in the film "The Uninvited" in 1944, and it quickly became a popular jazz standard. The song has been recorded by many jazz musicians, including Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, and Bill Evans. "Stella by Starlight" is a ballad that is typically played in a slow tempo. The song is in the key of B-flat and has a 32-bar AABA form. The melody is characterized by its use of chromaticism and its wide range, which spans over two octaves. The song's harmonies are also notable for their use of extended chords and modulations. The chord progression of the A section is a series of ii-V-I progressions in different keys, while the B section features a descending chromatic chord progression. The lyrics of "Stella by Starlight" are romantic and poetic, describing the beauty of the night sky and the feelings of love and longing that it inspires. The song's title is a metaphor for the fleeting nature of love and the way that it can be both beautiful and elusive. Overall, "Stella by Starlight" is a classic jazz standard that has been beloved by musicians and audiences for over 75 years. Its beautiful melody, sophisticated harmonies, and poetic lyrics continue to inspire jazz musicians and listeners around the world.

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