Bart Howard was an American composer and songwriter best known for writing the classic song "Fly Me to the Moon." Here are some interesting facts about him and the iconic song:
Early Life and Career: Bart Howard was born on June 1, 1915, in Burlington, Iowa, as Howard Joseph Gustafson. He began his career as a pianist and singer, performing in clubs and hotels in New York City.
Name Change: Bart Howard adopted his stage name to avoid being associated with the Swedish ambassador to the United States, who shared his birth name.
"Fly Me to the Moon": Bart Howard wrote "Fly Me to the Moon" in 1954. The song has become a jazz standard and has been recorded by numerous artists, including Frank Sinatra, who made it particularly famous. Sinatra's version, recorded in 1964, is considered one of the definitive renditions.
Original Title: The original title of the song was "In Other Words." It was later changed to "Fly Me to the Moon," which became more widely recognized.
Space Exploration Connection: "Fly Me to the Moon" gained additional popularity when it was played during the Apollo 10 mission in 1969. The mission orbited the moon as a rehearsal for the Apollo 11 lunar landing. The astronauts played the song in the command module, and it became associated with space exploration.
Numerous Covers: Over the years, "Fly Me to the Moon" has been covered by a multitude of artists from various genres, including Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, Diana Krall, and even rock bands like The Ventures.
Recognitions: The song has received several awards and recognitions. In 1999, the Songwriters Hall of Fame recognized Bart Howard's contribution by inducting him for his timeless composition.
Later Years: Bart Howard continued to compose music throughout his life. In addition to "Fly Me to the Moon," he wrote other songs that have been performed by various artists.
Legacy: "Fly Me to the Moon" remains one of the most enduring and romantic songs in the American songbook. Its timeless lyrics and beautiful melody have made it a favorite for lovers and music enthusiasts alike.
Bart Howard passed away on February 21, 2004, leaving behind a musical legacy that continues to captivate audiences around the world.