"Fly Me to the Moon" is a classic song that has been performed by many artists, but Frank Sinatra's rendition is one of the most iconic. Here are some interesting facts about Frank Sinatra and his version of "Fly Me to the Moon":
Origin of the Song: "Fly Me to the Moon" was originally titled "In Other Words" and was written by Bart Howard in 1954. The song's title was later changed to "Fly Me to the Moon" when it was recorded by Kaye Ballard in 1959.
Sinatra's Version: Frank Sinatra recorded "Fly Me to the Moon" in 1964 for his album "It Might as Well Be Swing," which was arranged and conducted by Quincy Jones.
Apollo 10 Connection: Sinatra's version of the song became associated with the Apollo space program. In 1969, the crew of Apollo 10, the fourth crewed mission in the Apollo program, chose "Fly Me to the Moon" as their wake-up call music.
First Song Played on the Moon: While Sinatra's version wasn't the first song played on the moon (that honor goes to "The Star-Spangled Banner"), it became closely associated with space exploration and has often been played in space-related contexts.
Recognition and Awards: Although "Fly Me to the Moon" wasn't released as a single, Sinatra's rendition is considered one of his signature songs. The album "It Might as Well Be Swing" received critical acclaim, and Sinatra's performance earned him a Grammy Award for Best Male Vocal Performance.
Popularity and Cultural Impact: The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, and its enduring popularity has made it a jazz standard. It has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, further solidifying its place in popular culture.
Sinatra's Legacy: Frank Sinatra, often referred to as "Ol' Blue Eyes" or "The Chairman of the Board," remains one of the best-selling music artists of all time. His contributions to the music industry, including his timeless interpretations of songs like "Fly Me to the Moon," continue to influence and inspire new generations of musicians.
"Fly Me to the Moon" remains a classic, and Sinatra's smooth and soulful rendition is a testament to his vocal prowess and enduring legacy in the world of music.