Introduction
While forever linked to Frank Sinatra’s smooth vocals and the wonder of lunar exploration, “Fly Me To The Moon” boasts a surprising origin story and a close call with a different title. Composed in 1954 by Bart Howard, the song was originally called “In Other Words” and held a more down-to-earth theme about escaping a lover’s woes.
However, Howard envisioned a broader appeal and with a lyrical tweak, transformed the yearning for escape into a whimsical longing for the cosmos. “Fly Me To The Moon” was born, but it wouldn’t quite reach orbit without the right voice. The first recording in 1954 belonged to Kaye Ballard, but the song remained relatively unknown.
Then came Sinatra. In 1964, Sinatra, a seasoned artist known for his smooth baritone and sophisticated style, recorded “Fly Me To The Moon” with Count Basie and his Orchestra. The result was a swinging, upbeat version that captured the playful spirit of the lyrics. This rendition, infused with Sinatra’s signature cool, became the definitive version.
The song’s connection to space travel wasn’t planned, but a fortuitous twist of fate sealed its destiny. Astronauts of the Apollo missions, captivated by the song’s lighthearted optimism, adopted “Fly Me To The Moon” as an unofficial anthem. A copy even made its way onto Apollo 10, orbiting the moon in 1969.
“Fly Me To The Moon” transcended its origins as a love song, becoming a symbol of human ambition and the audacity of space exploration. Sinatra’s version, with its irresistible melody and his smooth delivery, ensured the song’s place in history. So put on your blue suede shoes, crank up the volume, and let Frank Sinatra whisk you away on a swinging journey to the moon.
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