Burke Beautiful - The Songs Of Johnny Burke

Johnny Burke (1908-64) may be a little-known name today but he was one of the top lyricists of the 1930s, ‘40s and ‘50s. Among the songs that he graced with his words are “Pennies From Heaven,” “You’re Not The Only Oyster In The Stew” (recorded by Fats Waller), “I’ve Got A Pocketful Of Dreams,” “Moonlight Becomes You,” “Misty,” “Polka Dots And Moonbeams,” “Imagination,” “Here’s That Rainy Day,” and “The Road To Morocco.” While he penned the lyrics to over 200 songs written by Jimmy Van Heusen (and his lyrics were used in 25 Bing Crosby films), Burke also had many other collaborators during his busy career.

It is a measure of Johnny Burke’s large output that none of the above songs are included on Burke Beautiful, a CD featuring singer Sharon Paige and pianist Keith Ingham. On Burke Beautiful, Ms. Paige displays a beautiful voice and full understanding of the meaning behind Burke’s words, swinging throughout while sticking to the lyrics. Ingham, who has worked with many singers through the years including the late great Susannah McCorkle, proves to be the perfect accompanist, contributing occasional solos. They are joined by Bobby Porcelli on alto and flute (his solos are always welcome), bassist Ron McClure and drummer Arnie Wise. McClure’s occasional bowed bass on the ballads is a major asset to the music.

Track List

1 Bells of St. Mary's: Aren't You Glad You're You?
2 Belle of the Yukon: Sleighride in July
3 Road to Rio: You Don't Have to Know the Language
4 Road to Rio: But Beautiful 
5 My Heart Is a Hobo
6 Humpty Dumpty Heart
7 And the Angels Sing: It Could Happen to You
8 Going my Way: Swinging on a Star
9 A Hundred Dreams From Now
10 Get Rid of Monday
11 Suddenly It's Spring
12 Pennies from Heaven: One, Two, Button Your Shoe
13 What's New
14 Belle of the Yukon: Like Someone in Love
15 Do You Know Why?
16 Donnybrook!: He Makes Me Feel I'm Lovely