Blue Skies by Irving Berlin (1888-1989)
Irving Berlin was an American composer and lyricist of Jewish heritage, widely considered one of the greatest songwriters in American history. The song was composed in 1926 as a last minute addition to the Rodgers and Hart musical, Betsy. Although the show only ran for 39 performances, “Blue Skies” was an instant success, with audiences on opening night demanding 24 encores of the piece from star, Belle Baker. During the final repetition, Ms. Baker forgot her lyrics, prompting Berlin to sing them from his seat in the front row.
Notes
Jazz. from “Betsy” Musical. 50 Measures. 3 Pages. 4/4 Time Signature. key of G