We have a collection of 48 arrangements for Joseph Kosma - Autumn Leaves
What makes Autumn Leaves one of the most recorded jazz standards in history? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Joseph Kosma: The Composer Behind Autumn Leaves
Joseph Kosma was a Hungarian-French composer who is best known for his collaboration with French poet and lyricist Jacques Prévert on the song "Les Feuilles Mortes," which is known in English as "Autumn Leaves." Here are some interesting facts about Joseph Kosma and the song:
International Hit: "Autumn Leaves" is one of the most famous and widely recorded songs in the world. It has been covered by numerous artists in various languages, making it a global jazz standard.
Multilingual Lyrics: The song was originally written in French as "Les Feuilles Mortes" with lyrics by Jacques Prévert. Johnny Mercer later wrote English lyrics for the song, which became the well-known version sung by artists like Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole.
Film Connection: The song was initially composed by Joseph Kosma as part of the score for the 1946 French film "Les Portes de la Nuit" (The Doors of the Night). It was performed in the film by the character portrayed by Yves Montand.
Collaboration with Yves Montand: Kosma and Montand had a close professional relationship. Montand, a renowned French actor and singer, frequently performed Kosma's songs in his films and concerts. "Autumn Leaves" was one of their notable collaborations.
French Connection: Joseph Kosma was born in Budapest, Hungary, but he became a naturalized French citizen and spent much of his career in France. He is considered a key figure in French music and film.
Prolific Composer: Kosma composed music for over 100 films during his career, working with several prominent French directors, including Jean Renoir and Marcel Carné.
Influence on Jazz: "Autumn Leaves" has been embraced by jazz musicians since the 1950s, and it has become a jazz standard. Notable jazz artists, such as Miles Davis and Chet Baker, have recorded their interpretations of the song.
Posthumous Recognition: Joseph Kosma passed away in 1969, but his music continues to be celebrated. In 1999, he was posthumously awarded the title of Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters in France, recognizing his significant contributions to the world of music and film.
"Autumn Leaves" remains a timeless and evocative song, appreciated for its melancholic melody and enduring lyrics, and it continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences worldwide.