I realize that I have spent a lot of time writing about books lately. I also realized that it has been a while since I posted a song for Tune Tuesday. I heard one on the way into work today that remains one of my favorites.

When I Fall In Love

The song itself was written by Victor Young (who wrote the music) and Edward Heyman (who wrote the lyrics) in 1952. It was first recorded by the lovely Jeri Southern. Victor Young and his orchestra accompanied her on her version.

Doris Day’s version became the movie theme from One Minute to Zero (also 1952) and became the first “hit” version.

I was most familiar with Nat King Cole’s Version of the song. He released it on Capitol Records and his vocal is amazing. That version was the love theme for the 1957 movie Istanbul. Nat’s daughter Natalie recorded it twice – in 1987 and in 1996, the later version being a duet with her father.

It is a song that has been recorded by just about everyone. Celine Dion, Michael Buble’ Linda Ronstadt, Johnny Mathis, Etta James, Rick Astley, and Donny Osmond are just a few of the many who have recorded the song. The song itself stands out as an amazing piece of music, and I can’t think of a bad version of it. However, the version I want to feature today comes from the early 60’s.

In 1961, the song was recorded by The Letterman. These guys were one of the most popular vocal groups of their day. The group was formed in Las Vegas, Nevada, in the late 50’s. Anyone who reads my blog knows that I love good harmony, and their music features amazing harmony and beautiful arrangements. They were an unknown group of guys until they signed with Capitol Records in 1961. At the time the group members were Jim Pike, Tony Butala, and Bob Engemann. Their first single  for Capitol was a song that is forever connected with Frank Sinatra – “The Way You Look Tonight.”  Their version of the song went to #13 on the Billboard Hot 100. However, they struck gold and a top 10 record with their follow-up single – “When I Fall in Love.” Their version went to #7 on the Billboard hot 100 and #1 on the Billboard Easy Listening Chart in late 1962.

Give this beautiful arrangement a listen and enjoy one of the classic love songs!

When I fall in love, it will be forever
Or I’ll never fall in love

In a restless world like this is
Love is ended before it’s begun
And too many moonlight kisses
Seem to cool in the warmth of the sun

When I give my heart, it will be completely
Or I’ll never give my heart

And the moment I can feel that
You feel that way too
Is when I fall in love
When I fall in love with you

The group’s members have changed over the years, but as far as I know, they still tour together. As a bonus, check out this clip from a talk show where each of them sing their part and then put it all together. It’s kind of neat to hear.