A Turning Tide

The 1940s

I’m trying to pinpoint a distinct point in time during the 1940’s when a shift occurred, one that reflected what people, particularly younger people, preferred to listen to. The musical sounds of the 1940’s were changing from orchestral, to jazz and folk (think banjo pickin’) and then onward to a fuller sound, with layered instrumentals and strong vocalist(s).

Ella Fitzgerald singing When I get Low I get High still has that big band sound of the late 30s early 40s. She was an early crooner in an age that was typically limited to instrumentals. If there was a vocalist back then it was often male. Considering women could not yet vote or even legally sign a contract, her success was even more remarkable. Ella Fitzgerald defiantly broke barriers and created great music that is distinctive to the times.

A major war (the world’s second) was breaking out in Europe during this time which caused a sudden decline in the availability of musicians and staffed venues where they could perform. I can only imagine how quiet of a time that must have been for those who remained at home. I imagine them sitting by the old Victrola playing the same records over and over thinking about their loved ones.

Keep in mind the songs of the 1940’s were only released as singles since the LP wouldn’t come out for another ten years or so. Today you’ll hear many lasting songs from the 40’s by Bing Crosby or Frank Sinatra, two emerging artists at the time. Aretha Franklin was there too making her way from Memphis and all across the nation before settling in Michigan. You’ve got to respect that woman every damn day! We’ll come back to her in a future publication.

When the war ended in 1945 the music of that time became notably more upbeat. The horns are often celebratory, and for America this was a time to get out, see a live band and if you were lucky, dance a little jitterbug.

Here is a link to this weeks playlist.

Enjoy!