George Gershwin’s most famous songs have captivated audiences for nearly a century, defining the sound of American music. His compositions blend jazz, classical, and popular styles, creating a unique and enduring musical language that continues to resonate with listeners today. Gershwin’s ability to craft memorable melodies and innovative harmonies has cemented his place as one of the most influential composers in American history.
The impact of George Gershwin’s compositions extends far beyond the concert hall. His songs have become staples of the Great American Songbook, inspiring countless performances and recordings by artists across genres. From Broadway to Hollywood, Gershwin’s music has shaped popular culture, leaving an indelible mark on film scores, jazz standards, and orchestral repertoire. This article explores the timeless appeal of Gershwin’s most beloved works and their lasting influence on American music.
The Gershwin Sound: Defining American Music
George Gershwin’s music embodies the essence of American musical innovation, blending diverse influences to create a unique and enduring sound. His compositions reflect the cultural melting pot of early 20th-century America, incorporating elements from various musical traditions and styles.
Jazz Influences
Gershwin’s music is deeply rooted in the jazz idiom, drawing inspiration from African-American blues and ragtime. He skillfully incorporated syncopated rhythms and blue notes into his compositions, giving them a distinctly American flavor. The revolutionary “Rhapsody in Blue” exemplifies this fusion, combining jazz elements with a symphonic context. Gershwin himself stated that he aimed to challenge the misconceptions about jazz’s limitations, demonstrating its versatility and expressive power.
Classical Inspirations
While jazz was a significant influence, Gershwin’s musical palette extended far beyond it. He drew inspiration from a wide range of classical composers, including Bach, Chopin, Liszt, Debussy, and Tchaikovsky. His “Lullaby” for string quartet (1919) showcases Debussy’s harmonic influence, while “Rhapsody in Blue” bears the marks of Liszt, Tchaikovsky, and Chopin. Gershwin’s passion for classical music led him to seek out tutors throughout his life, constantly striving to broaden his musical knowledge and compositional technique.
Creating a Unique Musical Voice
Gershwin’s genius lay in his ability to seamlessly blend popular and classical elements, creating a sound that was uniquely his own. His compositions often featured sophisticated melodies reminiscent of classical music, combined with the rhythmic complexity of jazz. This fusion is evident in works like “An American in Paris,” which incorporates both jazz and classical forms.
Gershwin’s approach to composition was characterized by a sense of freedom and improvisation. He often began with a purpose rather than a strict plan, allowing his music to evolve organically. This approach is exemplified in “Rhapsody in Blue,” where he resolved to challenge preconceived notions about jazz’s limitations.
Throughout his career, Gershwin continued to explore and incorporate diverse musical influences. His “Cuban Overture” (1932) introduced Latin American rhythms and instruments to American audiences, further expanding the boundaries of his musical language.
Gershwin’s unique voice in American music stemmed from his ability to manipulate various musical forms into his own style. He took the jazz he discovered on Tin Pan Alley and brought it into the mainstream, blending its rhythms and tonality with popular songs of his era. His music truly reflected the thoughts and aspirations of the American people of his time, creating a lasting legacy that continues to define American music.
Iconic Songs and Their Lasting Impact
George Gershwin’s most famous songs have left an indelible mark on American music, captivating audiences for generations. Three of his most iconic compositions stand out for their enduring popularity and cultural significance.
‘Summertime’ from Porgy and Bess
‘Summertime,’ the opening aria from Gershwin’s opera “Porgy and Bess,” has become the most covered song in the world, with over 25,000 versions. Written in 1934, this jazz-inspired lullaby features a melancholy feel, composed in a minor key. The song’s lyrics, while seemingly comforting, carry a deep irony, reflecting the struggles of African Americans during the Jim Crow era.
Musically, ‘Summertime’ showcases Gershwin’s genius in blending classical and jazz elements. The opening instrumental section evokes a dreamy, fantastical atmosphere, reminiscent of Debussy’s work. The gentle rocking melody and use of dissonance create a magical, mysterious quality that enhances the song’s emotional impact.
‘Someone to Watch Over Me’
This beloved love song, featured in the musical “Oh, Kay!” has become a staple of American musical theater. Originally performed by Gertrude Lawrence, the song gained its iconic status through her heartfelt rendition, singing to a rag doll on stage. This prop, suggested by George Gershwin himself, intensified the vulnerability and longing expressed in the lyrics.
The song’s placement in the second act of the musical allowed for a deeper integration into the story, reflecting the complexity of the main character’s emotions. Its wistful quality, discovered when George inadvertently slowed down the tempo, has contributed to its lasting appeal.
‘Embraceable You’
Written in 1928 for an unpublished operetta, ‘Embraceable You’ has become a jazz standard, covered by numerous artists across various genres. The song’s tender melody and heartfelt lyrics express themes of love, longing, and connection, resonating with audiences of all ages.
Frank Sinatra’s 1947 rendition on “Songs for Young Lovers” is particularly noteworthy, showcasing the song’s emotional depth. The lyrics convey a message of yearning, transformation, and contentment found in love, highlighting the power of romantic connection.
These iconic songs demonstrate Gershwin’s ability to create timeless melodies that continue to captivate listeners, solidifying his legacy as one of America’s greatest composers.
Gershwin’s Legacy in Film and Popular Culture
George Gershwin’s influence extends far beyond the concert hall, leaving an indelible mark on film, popular music, and advertising. His compositions have been adapted, reimagined, and celebrated across various media, cementing his status as a cultural icon.
Hollywood Adaptations
Gershwin’s music found a natural home in Hollywood, where it enhanced numerous films and musicals. In the latter part of his career, he composed classic scores for movies starring Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, and Ginger Rogers. The Oscar-winning musical “An American in Paris,” directed by Vincente Minnelli and starring Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron, was based on Gershwin’s 1928 composition of the same name.
Other notable film adaptations include “Rhapsody in Blue,” a fictional biography loosely based on Gershwin’s life, and “Shall We Dance,” a light musical comedy featuring classic Gershwin compositions like “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off” and “They Can’t Take That Away From Me.” These films not only showcased Gershwin’s musical genius but also helped introduce his work to new generations of audiences.
Cover Versions by Modern Artists
Gershwin’s songs have been reinterpreted by countless artists across various genres, demonstrating their enduring appeal and versatility. “Summertime,” from the opera “Porgy and Bess,” has become one of the most covered songs in history, with renditions by artists ranging from Billie Holiday and Janis Joplin to Louis Armstrong and Miles Davis.
Modern artists continue to find inspiration in Gershwin’s work. Willie Nelson’s version of “Summertime” offers a laid-back, country-infused take on the classic, while Brian Wilson’s reimagining of Gershwin’s compositions blends the Beach Boys’ signature sound with Gershwin’s melodies, creating a unique fusion of styles.
Use in Advertising and Media
Gershwin’s music has also made a significant impact in the world of advertising. Since 1980, “Rhapsody in Blue” has been prominently featured in United Airlines’ television commercials. This strategic choice not only showcases the piece’s cultural resonance but also aligns the airline’s brand with the sophistication and Americana evoked by Gershwin’s music.
The use of “Rhapsody in Blue” in advertising demonstrates the lasting power of Gershwin’s compositions to evoke emotion and create strong brand associations. It has become synonymous with United Airlines’ image, used in commercials and in-flight announcements, further solidifying Gershwin’s place in popular culture.
Conclusion
George Gershwin’s music continues to captivate audiences and shape American culture. His unique blend of jazz, classical, and popular styles has had a lasting impact on the musical landscape, inspiring countless artists across genres. Gershwin’s most famous songs, like “Summertime” and “Someone to Watch Over Me,” have become timeless classics, showcasing his gift for crafting memorable melodies and innovative harmonies.
