American Standard 101

What is American Standard?

For most people it may be this... the American bathroom products company. For others it may be about procedures and policy, or ever weights and measures. But for the musically oriented... the term refers to the most popular and influential popular and Jazz songs of the early 20th century... songs that make up the 'Great American Songbook'... that have been sung by some great singers including the English (Robbie Williams) and the Scottish (Rod Stewart). 

And among the many contributors to this collection is a great composer and lyricist who lived to be a hundred and one - Irving Berlin - who is regarded as one of the greatest songwriters of all time. So great is his contribution to the music of America that the U.S. Postal Service has honored him with a postal stamp on his 125th birth anniversary.

To celebrate this great songwriter, I just thought I'd share some of my favorites written by him performed by artistes from his time.... till now. 

Come on and hear.... Alexander's Ragtime Band

Remember someone singing that catchy song at a singing competition a long time ago.
The songs by Irving Berlin have stood the test of time... and won a Grammy... as recently as 2015 for Lady Gaga... not alone but dancing Cheek to Cheek... with the soon-to-be 90 Tony Bennett. 

And as some of us prepare to go off to bed, we may be possibly counting sheep to help us get sleep... But Irving Berlin's song sung here by Diana Krall advises us to Count Your Blessings (instead of sheep).

Good night... Tomorrow is just a few hours away... and a special day...