Back in November 2010, I posted “Smiles” by Swiss alto saxophonist Flavio Ambrosetti as the Song of the Week #35.
Five years earlier, Benny Goodman recorded “Smiles” with his quartet, featuring Lionel Hampton on vibraphone, Teddy Wilson on piano and Gene Krupa on drums.
Smiles
Let’s listen to two versions.
First, the studio version (it’s a bit scratchy…)
And now, a live version, obviously from the same year (although, I don’t have any evidence for that)
Smiles is wonderful song, both for Lindy Hop and Balboa. Because of the clear rhythm, it’s especially useful for Balboa (beginner) classes.
Probably, I have written this before: I definitely recommend the album “The Complete RCA Victor Small Group Recordings“. All the songs were carefully remastered in 1996 and it is one of my favorite compilations of Swing music ever!
Title: Smiles
Artist: Benny Goodman Quartet
Recorded: 1937
Album: The Complete RCA Victor Small Group Recordings
Tempo: 154 bpm
Dance: Lindy Hop, Balboa
Click the link to download the song at
iTunes CH/EU ･ iTunes US ･ Amazon.de･ A’zon.com ･ A’zon.co.uk ･ emusic
Do you like small groups or do you prefer big bands? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!
Every Monday, I post a new “Song of the Week“.
You can find the songs also on my Spotify playlist or on 8tracks.
Related Songs:
Song of the Week #35: “Smiles” by Flavio Ambrosetti Sextett
Song of the Week #93: “Moonglow” (Take 2) by Benny Goodman Quartet
Song of the Week #113: “Ridin’ And Jivin’” by Earl Hines
Song of the Week #112: “Ochi Chornya” by Wingy Manone
Song of the Week #111: “Town Hall Blues” by Bud Freeman
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