“Summertime” in Jazz and Popular Music: A Century of Influence and Inspiration
Overview of “Summertime” and Its Significance
“Summertime,” an aria composed by George Gershwin in 1934 for the opera “Porgy and Bess,” stands as one of the most iconic pieces in the Great American Songbook. The lyrics, penned by DuBose Heyward, who also wrote the novel “Porgy,” complement Gershwin’s haunting melody to create a piece that transcends its origins. The song opens the opera, setting the scene with its languid, soothing lullaby sung by the character Clara to her baby. Its opening lines, “Summertime, and the livin’ is easy,” immediately evoke the heat and relaxation of a Southern summer, while also hinting at the deeper social and emotional currents that run through the opera.
The significance of “Summertime” extends beyond its role in “Porgy and Bess.” The song quickly became a jazz standard, widely recorded and performed by artists across multiple genres. Its simple yet evocative melody and harmonies have allowed for endless reinterpretations, each bringing new life and nuance to the piece. The transition of “Summertime” from an opera aria to a jazz standard exemplifies the fluid boundaries between classical and popular music, and its adaptability speaks to the universal themes of longing and comfort embedded in its notes and lyrics.
Musically, “Summertime” is a marvel of simplicity and depth. Composed in the key of A minor, it employs a bluesy, pentatonic scale that gives it an almost folk-like quality. Gershwin’s choice of key and his use of a repeating harmonic structure create a sense of both stasis and movement, mirroring the lullaby’s role as both a soothing and a haunting piece. This combination of musical elements has made “Summertime” a favorite among jazz musicians, who appreciate the song’s open structure as a canvas for improvisation.
The lyrics of “Summertime,” though deceptively simple, are rich with imagery and meaning. Heyward’s words capture the essence of the Southern landscape and lifestyle, while also conveying a sense of hope and resilience. The line “Your daddy’s rich and your mama’s good-lookin’” not only paints a vivid picture but also serves as a comforting reassurance. This interplay of simplicity and depth in both the lyrics and the music is a key reason why “Summertime” has remained relevant and beloved for nearly a century.
The impact of “Summertime” on the world of music and culture cannot be overstated. It has been recorded over 33,000 times, making it one of the most covered songs in history. Each artist brings their unique interpretation, showcasing the song’s versatility and enduring appeal. From its origins in a groundbreaking opera to its place as a jazz and pop standard, “Summertime” continues to resonate with audiences around the world, proving the timeless power of Gershwin’s composition and Heyward’s lyrics.
Background and Career of George Gershwin
George Gershwin, born Jacob Gershwine on September 26, 1898, in Brooklyn, New York, was one of the most influential American composers of the 20th century. From an early age, Gershwin exhibited a prodigious talent for music. His parents, Russian-Jewish immigrants, initially saw little future in his musical aspirations, but their views changed when Gershwin, at the age of 10, played a song on the family piano that he had learned entirely by ear. This marked the beginning of his journey into the world of music, where he would go on to blend elements of jazz, classical, and popular music into a uniquely American sound.
Gershwin’s career began in earnest at age 15 when he dropped out of school to work as a “song plugger” on Tin Pan Alley, a bustling center for the music publishing industry in New York City. This job involved promoting songs by playing them in music stores, a role that honed his skills as both a pianist and a composer. During this period, Gershwin began composing his own pieces, leading to his first published song, “When You Want ‘Em, You Can’t Get ‘Em, When You Got ‘Em, You Don’t Want ‘Em” in 1916. Although this song was not a major hit, it marked the start of Gershwin’s professional career.
The 1920s were a defining decade for Gershwin. His song “Swanee,” performed by Al Jolson, became an enormous hit, bringing him national fame. Gershwin then ventured into Broadway, where he collaborated with his older brother Ira Gershwin, a lyricist. Together, they produced numerous successful musicals, including “Lady, Be Good!” (1924) and “Funny Face” (1927). These musicals featured songs that have since become standards in the American songbook, showcasing Gershwin’s ability to blend catchy melodies with sophisticated harmonies.
One of Gershwin’s most ambitious projects was the composition of “Rhapsody in Blue” in 1924, a piece that seamlessly fused classical music with jazz elements. Premiered by Paul Whiteman’s orchestra with Gershwin himself at the piano, “Rhapsody in Blue” was a groundbreaking work that established Gershwin’s reputation as a serious composer. This success was followed by other significant works, such as “An American in Paris” (1928) and the opera “Porgy and Bess” (1935), which included the timeless song “Summertime.”
Tragically, George Gershwin’s life was cut short when he died of a brain tumor on July 11, 1937, at the age of 38. Despite his brief career, Gershwin left an indelible mark on American music. His works continue to be performed and celebrated worldwide, reflecting his enduring influence on both classical and popular music. Gershwin’s ability to transcend musical boundaries and create universally appealing compositions ensures that his legacy lives on.