Eddie DeLange was an American lyricist and songwriter known for his contributions to the world of music, particularly during the Big Band era. Here are some interesting facts about him and his famous song "Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans":
Collaboration with Louis Armstrong: Eddie DeLange co-wrote the song "Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans" with Louis Alter. This song became one of the signature tunes of Louis Armstrong and is closely associated with the city of New Orleans.
Birth and Early Career: Eddie DeLange was born on January 15, 1904, in New York City, New York, USA. He initially pursued a career as a musician, playing saxophone and singing in various bands.
Transition to Songwriting: DeLange transitioned from performing to songwriting in the 1930s and began collaborating with various composers, including Jimmy Van Heusen and Louis Alter. He penned lyrics for many popular songs of the era.
"Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans": This song was written for the 1947 movie "New Orleans," starring Louis Armstrong and Billie Holiday. It has since become a jazz standard and is often performed by artists paying tribute to New Orleans and its unique cultural heritage.
Legacy: Eddie DeLange's contributions to the American Songbook include many other notable songs, such as "So Rare" and "Darn That Dream." His work remains an important part of the jazz and pop music traditions.
Later Career: DeLange continued to write songs and lyrics for various artists throughout his career. He had a knack for crafting evocative and emotional lyrics that resonated with audiences.
Honors and Awards: Eddie DeLange was posthumously inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1980, recognizing his significant contributions to the world of music.
Personal Tragedy: DeLange passed away on July 15, 1949, at the age of 45. His untimely death marked the end of a prolific career in music.
"Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans" is a classic jazz song that captures the sentiment and nostalgia associated with the city of New Orleans. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years and continues to be a beloved piece in the jazz repertoire.