Leave Your Troubles Outside

Given the performance of the Obama administration over the last 60 days or so, I'm a bit worried about my exposure in the markets this week. Many of us have watched our retirement accounts cut in half over the last six months. I spent 20 years building mine. The chronic frustration wears one out after a while. In anticipation of what tomorrow may bring, I bring you instead a diversion based on an economic meltdown in the last century. The setting is Berlin and the Weimar Republic. The year is 1931. Take it all in, listen carefully, digest it and remember that we have been partying for a long time.



Cabaret (1972) is a historically significant film and one of my favorites. The opening scene you have just watched is one half of a bookend and one of the best in the history of film. That said, you have to watch the entire film to understand why. I trust your curiosity will drive you to add it to your Netflix queue or rush to the nearest library.

Blossom Dearie

The world of American music lost a rare talent on Saturday with the passing of singer, lyricist and pianist, Blossom Dearie. With her tiny voice, perfect diction, sophisticated song selections, and touch of humor, she entertained jazz and cabaret fans for almost fifty years. Had she not valued her privacy so much, I'm certain she would have been far better known and appreciated. Read more about her at the link above, and check out this recording from the '60s.



I'm Old Fashioned (1942), with music by Jerome Kern and lyrics by Johnny Mercer, has long been in the Great American Songbook. Blossom only adds to the class. I chose this song because she had joined Mercer's circle of close friends by the early '60s, and supplied the music for his last lyric, My New Celebrity is You, probably in early 1975. Celebrity really captures the best qualities of both artists. Sorry I couldn't post it for you to enjoy.