We have a collection of 48 arrangements for Joseph Kosma - Autumn Leaves
What French film first featured Autumn Leaves as its theme song? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Joseph Kosma: The Composer Behind Autumn Leaves
Joseph Kosma was a Hungarian-French composer known for his contributions to the world of music, including the iconic song "Autumn Leaves." Here are some interesting facts about him and the song:
Early Life: Joseph Kosma was born on October 22, 1905, in Budapest, Hungary. He later moved to Paris, where he became a naturalized French citizen.
Collaboration with Jacques Prévert: Kosma's most famous work, "Autumn Leaves" (French title: "Les Feuilles Mortes"), is a collaboration with the renowned French poet and lyricist Jacques Prévert. Prévert wrote the lyrics for the song, which were later set to music by Kosma.
Origin of the Song: "Autumn Leaves" was originally composed in 1945 as the score for a French film called "Les Portes de la Nuit" (The Doors of the Night). The song was performed in the film by the actor Yves Montand.
English Version: The song gained international popularity when Johnny Mercer wrote English lyrics for it in 1947. This English version was recorded by various artists, including Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole, and became a jazz standard.
Numerous Cover Versions: "Autumn Leaves" has been covered by countless artists across various genres, making it one of the most recorded songs in history. Jazz musicians, in particular, have embraced the song, and it's a staple in their repertoire.
Recognition: In 1997, "Autumn Leaves" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in recognition of its cultural and historical significance in the world of music.
Global Impact: The song has been translated into numerous languages and remains popular worldwide. It has touched the hearts of listeners with its melancholic and reflective lyrics.
Film Score Composer: Besides "Autumn Leaves," Joseph Kosma composed music for many other films, collaborating with notable filmmakers like Jean Renoir and Marcel Carné. His film compositions contributed significantly to the development of French cinema.
Legacy: Joseph Kosma's work, particularly "Autumn Leaves," continues to influence musicians and songwriters, demonstrating the enduring power of his music.
Death and Legacy: Joseph Kosma passed away on August 7, 1969, in La Roche-Guyon, France. His legacy lives on through his timeless compositions, with "Autumn Leaves" remaining a beloved and enduring piece of music history.