Bart Howard was a talented American songwriter known for his iconic song "Fly Me to the Moon." Here are some interesting facts about him:
Early Life: Bart Howard was born as Howard Joseph Gustafson on June 1, 1915, in Burlington, Iowa. He later adopted the stage name "Bart Howard."
Musical Beginnings: He showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at a young age. His musical talents were recognized by his family, and he received formal training in piano and composition.
Broadway Success: Bart Howard had a successful career as a cabaret and lounge pianist in New York City. He often performed at renowned venues such as the Blue Angel and the Bon Soir.
"Fly Me to the Moon": One of his most famous compositions is "Fly Me to the Moon." He wrote the song in 1954, originally titled "In Other Words." It became an instant hit when it was first recorded by Kaye Ballard.
Frank Sinatra's Version: The song gained even more popularity when Frank Sinatra recorded it in 1964 for his album "It Might as Well Be Swing." Sinatra's rendition of "Fly Me to the Moon" is perhaps the most well-known version and is considered a classic.
Apollo 11 Mission: "Fly Me to the Moon" is often associated with the Apollo 11 mission to the moon in 1969. It was played in space during the mission, making it the first music ever heard on the lunar surface.
Covered by Many Artists: Bart Howard's song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, Diana Krall, and Michael Bublé, among others.
Legacy: Bart Howard's contributions to the world of music extend beyond "Fly Me to the Moon." He wrote and composed many other songs that have been performed by various artists.
Later Years: Bart Howard continued to write and perform music throughout his life. He passed away on February 21, 2004, in Carmel, New York, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of music.
Recognition: His work has been recognized and celebrated by the music industry, and "Fly Me to the Moon" remains an enduring jazz standard, frequently performed by musicians around the world.
Bart Howard's "Fly Me to the Moon" continues to be a beloved song and a symbol of space exploration, cementing his place in the annals of American music history.