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By Bill Davis & Don Wolf1952
A jazz gem that came along just as the new forms were emerging post World War II, including be bop and the nascent rhythm and blues that would lead to rock 'n roll. Wild Billy Davis was an innovative jazz pianist and organist who had done stints with the ensembles of Louis Jordan (pictured) and Duke Ellington among others, when he put this easy, supercool number together along with Don Wolf (who'd later contribute to the timeless early rock instrumental "Sleepwalk"). Jordan's band introduced the song.
Lyrics:
Gone and got the blues in Paris
Paris blues called Azure-Te
How can I be blue in Paris?
It's easy 'cause you're far away
Can't lose these blues, this Azure-Te
Side-walk tables filled with people
Always happy, always gay
Still I'm all alone in Paris
Praying you'll return someday
Can't lose this blues, this Azure-Te
Montmartre, springtime, Eiffel Tower
Funny taxis, the kids at play
Paris without you is lonesome
Yearning more and more each day
Can't lose these blues, this Azure-Te
If you knew how much I need you
You'd come back to me to stay
Having you with me in Paris Really is the only way
You lose these blues, this Azure-Te
These Paris blues, this Azure-Te
You missed the covers by Ernestine Anderson and Allyson Krause... both excellent. Sinatra butchered the song, in my opinion. He called my stepfather, Don Wolf after the album it was on was released and said, "Great song. Sorry it wasn't a bigger hit for you".
ReplyDeleteSorry, I forgot to say thanks for posting this song. Your blog is excellent.
ReplyDeleteThe Sauter-Finegan Orchestra recorded a superb instrumental version.
ReplyDeleteWhat does the “Te” mean in Azure Te?
ReplyDelete