Frank Sinatra's "That Old Black Magic": A Reflection of the Rat Pack Era

Frank Sinatra: That Old Black Magic Frank Sinatra, known as the Chairman of the Board or simply Ol' Blue Eyes, was one of the most influential and iconic American singers of the 20th century. Throughout his career, he recorded numerous famous songs, one of which was "That Old Black Magic." "That Old Black Magic" is a popular song written by Harold Arlen (music) and Johnny Mercer (lyrics) in 1942. It was originally written for the movie "Star Spangled Rhythm" and performed by Johnny Johnston and danced by Vera Zorina. However, it was Frank Sinatra's rendition of the song that made it truly timeless and unforgettable. The song describes the bewitching effect love can have on an individual.

The exquisite multisyllabic end rhymes ("waited for / created for") reinforce the internal rhyme of "mate" and "fate" and lead to the kiss that captures the lover's heart. It is that rare song that conveys all the romantic enchantment of falling passionately in love at the same time that it hints at the tyrannical nature of Eros" (Lehman, p. 87) .

It is that rare song that conveys all the romantic enchantment of falling passionately in love at the same time that it hints at the tyrannical nature of Eros Lehman, p. Notes Sinatra recorded That Old Black Magic twice, the 1946 Columbia version on the first album above arranged by Axel Stordahl; and the 1961 Capitol studio recording arranged by Heinie Beau with orchestra conducted by Billy May for the 1961 album Come Swing With Me.

The song describes the bewitching effect love can have on an individual. It uses magical imagery and metaphors to convey the intensity and enchantment of romantic feelings. Sinatra's smooth and velvety voice brings to life the lyrics, making listeners feel every word and emotion.

That Old Black Magic

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Released in 1953, Sinatra's version of "That Old Black Magic" became an instant classic. It showcased his distinctive vocal ability, impeccable phrasing, and unique interpretation of the song. The arrangement and orchestration perfectly complemented Sinatra's voice, creating a captivating and dynamic musical experience. Sinatra's rendition of "That Old Black Magic" exemplifies his signature style of singing, known for its effortless charisma and impeccable control. His iconic crooning style and powerful delivery added depth and emotion to the song, making it a memorable and beloved addition to his extensive repertoire. Over the years, "That Old Black Magic" has been covered by numerous artists, but Sinatra's rendition remains the gold standard. The song has also been featured in various films and advertisements, solidifying its place as one of the greatest songs of the American Songbook. Frank Sinatra's legacy and influence on modern music are undeniable, and his rendition of "That Old Black Magic" is a testament to his incomparable talent. It continues to captivate audiences and stands as a timeless example of Sinatra's musical genius..

Reviews for "Unraveling the Emotional Depth of Frank Sinatra's "That Old Black Magic"

1. John - 2/5 - I was really disappointed with Frank Sinatra's rendition of "That Old Black Magic." He lacked the energy and charisma that I usually associate with him. The song felt flat and monotonous, lacking any dynamic range. It seemed like Sinatra was just going through the motions without putting his heart into it. Overall, it was a forgettable performance from an otherwise talented artist.

2. Emily - 3/5 - While I appreciate Frank Sinatra's contributions to the music industry, I can't say that "That Old Black Magic" is one of my favorite songs of his. The arrangement felt dated and uninspired, lacking the creativity and innovation that I admire in his other works. Additionally, Sinatra's vocal performance seemed strained and forced at times, taking away from the overall enjoyment of the song. It's not a terrible rendition, but it definitely falls short of Sinatra's usual brilliance.

3. Robert - 2/5 - I have to admit, I'm not a fan of Frank Sinatra's rendition of "That Old Black Magic." His voice sounds tired and worn out, lacking the charm and smoothness I associate with him. The orchestra accompanying him also feels lackluster and fails to elevate the song to its full potential. Overall, it left me wanting more from Sinatra and expecting a level of excellence that was not met in this particular performance.

4. Sarah - 2/5 - Frank Sinatra's version of "That Old Black Magic" did not live up to my expectations. His delivery felt rushed and lacking the finesse that I've come to expect from him. The song itself felt like a generic and formulaic rendition, failing to bring anything new or exciting to the table. It didn't capture my attention or leave a lasting impression, and I found myself quickly forgetting it after listening. Overall, it was a forgettable performance from a legendary artist.

The Legacy of Frank Sinatra's "That Old Black Magic" in Popular Culture