"Bart Howard" was the pseudonym of Howard Joseph Gustafson, an American composer and songwriter. He is best known for composing the song "Fly Me to the Moon," which became a classic and has been covered by numerous artists. Here are some interesting facts about Bart Howard and his famous song:
Early Life and Name Change: Bart Howard was born on June 1, 1915, in Burlington, Iowa. He later changed his name from Howard Joseph Gustafson to Bart Howard when he began his career in music.
Songwriting Career: Bart Howard was a prolific songwriter and composed many songs throughout his career. However, his most enduring and popular composition is undoubtedly "Fly Me to the Moon."
"Fly Me to the Moon": Howard wrote "Fly Me to the Moon" in 1954. The song's original title was "In Other Words." It was first recorded by Kaye Ballard, an American musical theater and television actress, in 1954. The song gained popularity over the years and became associated with the romantic and space exploration themes.
Frank Sinatra's Iconic Version: One of the most famous and enduring renditions of "Fly Me to the Moon" was performed by Frank Sinatra. He recorded the song for his 1964 album "It Might As Well Be Swing," which was a collaboration with the Count Basie Orchestra. Sinatra's version became particularly synonymous with the song.
Apollo Missions Connection: The song's romantic and dreamy lyrics, along with its title, led to its use during the Apollo missions in the 1960s. Astronauts played the song on their personal cassette players while traveling to the moon, and it became an unofficial anthem for space exploration.
Continued Popularity: "Fly Me to the Moon" continued to be popular and was covered by various artists over the years, including Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, Diana Krall, and Michael Bublé, among others.
Multiple Languages: The song has been translated and recorded in various languages, contributing to its international appeal.
Pop Culture References: The song has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials, further solidifying its status as a timeless classic.
Legacy: Bart Howard's "Fly Me to the Moon" remains one of the most recognized and beloved American standards. Its enduring popularity and frequent use in various media have solidified its place in music history.
Later Years and Passing: Bart Howard continued to write and perform music throughout his life. He lived in New York City, where he was part of the city's cabaret scene. He passed away on February 21, 2004, in Carmel, New York, leaving behind a musical legacy that is celebrated to this day.
"Bart Howard" may not be as widely known as some of the performers who covered his song, but his creation, "Fly Me to the Moon," has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the world of music and popular culture.