Bart Howard, the composer of the iconic song "Fly Me to the Moon," had an interesting life and career. Here are some fascinating facts about him:
Early Life and Name Change: Bart Howard was born as Howard Joseph Gustafson on June 1, 1915, in Burlington, Iowa. He later adopted the stage name "Bart Howard" for his music career.
Musical Prodigy: Howard showed musical talent from a young age and began playing the piano when he was just a child. His family recognized his talent and encouraged his musical pursuits.
Inspiration for "Fly Me to the Moon": Howard wrote "Fly Me to the Moon" in 1954. The song was originally titled "In Other Words." The inspiration for the song came from his desire to create a standard jazz ballad in the style of the Great American Songbook.
Frank Sinatra's Version: Although the song was initially recorded by Kaye Ballard, it gained widespread popularity when Frank Sinatra released his version in 1964. Sinatra's rendition became the definitive interpretation of the song and is still widely recognized and loved today.
NASA Connection: "Fly Me to the Moon" took on special significance in 1969 when it was played on the Apollo 11 mission as astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to walk on the moon. The song's association with space exploration added to its cultural significance.
Many Cover Versions: Over the years, "Fly Me to the Moon" has been covered by numerous artists from various musical genres. It has become a timeless classic, with interpretations by artists like Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, Julie London, and many others.
Awards and Recognition: Bart Howard received several awards and accolades for his contributions to music. In 1997, he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame for his enduring composition.
Longevity and Influence: "Fly Me to the Moon" has maintained its popularity for decades and is often used in movies, television shows, and advertisements. Its enduring appeal attests to Bart Howard's skill as a songwriter.
Personal Life: Bart Howard lived in New York City and was a well-known figure in the city's cabaret and nightclub scene. He performed his own songs and collaborated with other artists during his career.
Legacy: Bart Howard passed away on February 21, 2004, but his music continues to touch the hearts of people around the world. "Fly Me to the Moon" remains a beloved and timeless classic in the world of music.
Bart Howard's contribution to music with "Fly Me to the Moon" ensures that his name will be remembered for generations to come.