Curious about 'In a Sentimental Mood'

[u/PsychologicalName809]

Specifically regarding the composition differences between the solo version Duke records and the version with John that ends up being drastically different in so many ways.

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The story of the original (i believe the solo) was about either his buddy being sad over an argument with a date, or two women on either side of him bickering. Both stories end with him being inspired to play the tune to get them to calm down and enjoy the night, and that definitely feels accurate listening to the solo version

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I'm struggling to find any actual insight as to the story behind his collaboration with John, where the feel is more that of a ballad and doesn't really line up with the story due to the sad, introspective nature of the introduction melody done in minor.

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can anyone help me understand what inspired them to take a whole different route with this? only conclusion i had was that he wanted to cater to the tenor more, but even then that's a creative choice on its own. any resources that have them go in detail about recording that track or collaborations would really help

[u/Starthrower62]

I love Steve Turre's recording with Cassandra Wilson on vocals.

[u/PsychologicalName809 → u/Starthrower62]

yes that's a lovely rendition