The reason for doing this list is inspired by the new version of ‘Autumn Nocturne’ by Anna Pauline and in memory of Cassandra Wilson who died recently. Cassandra delivered one of the most influential versions of the song on her album Blue Skies (JMT, 1988). Lyrics are by Kim Gannon who also wrote the lovable ‘I’ll Be Home For Christmas‘ – the melody by Josef Myrow who also wrote the tune of Songs for Swingin’ Lovers ole blue eyes classic, ‘You Make Me Feel So Young.’ The instrumental versions of the piece are just as compelling as the ones with words. Pictured: Claude Thornhill
When autumn sings her lullaby
And green leaves turn to gold
Then I remember last September
You and I said goodbye
Whispering that we would be returning
When autumn comes again
Now autumn roams the hills once more
But you forgot your vow
And here am I
Alone with only memories
Only lonely memories
Autumn memories of you
I love the Irving Fazola solo on the Thornhill version. It is meltingly perfect when it comes in at 1 min and 41 seconds.
Love, when the leaves are turning
I get a hungry yearning for your arms
Love, when a heart is so blue
It shadows bright October’s golden charms
The flaming moon reminds me of
The night of love that we once knew
Each tiny star is but a prayer
That when it’s fall again, love will call again
And you’ll be beside me
To make my autumn dreams come true
– Kim Gannon
‘Autumn Nocturne’ is on Lucky to Be Me – marlbank’s top rated vocals jazz album in 2026 so far. Read the full list.
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