Moonlight in Vermont (song)

"Moonlight in Vermont" is a popular song about the U.S. state of Vermont, written by John Blackburn (lyrics) and Karl Suessdorf (music) and published in 1944.[1] It was introduced by Margaret Whiting in a 1944 recording.[1]

Background edit

The lyrics are unusual in that they do not rhyme.[1] John Blackburn, the lyricist, has been quoted as saying, "After completing the first 12 bars of the lyric, I realized there was no rhyme and then said to Karl, 'Let’s follow the pattern of no rhyme throughout the song. It seemed right.'"[2] The lyrics are also unconventional in that each verse (not counting the bridge) is a haiku.[1]

The song is considered an unofficial state song of Vermont and is frequently played as the first dance song at Vermont wedding receptions.[3]

Recorded versions edit

"Moonlight in Vermont" has been covered by numerous other artists over the years:

Billy Eckstine, 1964, with Bobby Tucker's Orchestra

References edit

  1. ^ a b c d "Jazz Standards Songs and Instrumentals (Moonlight in Vermont)". www.jazzstandards.com.
  2. ^ Sheila Davis (1984) The Craft of Lyric Writing , Writer's Digest Books, Cincinnati ISBN 0-89879-149-9
  3. ^ Franz, Charlie; Wrzeszczynski, Kazimierz. "Moonlight in Vermont History". Retrieved 2019-06-20. If you have ever been to a wedding in Vermont you undoubtedly have heard Moonlight in Vermont.

External links edit