About The Song
(Watch the video below)
"Stardust," a timeless ballad that has become synonymous with the Great American Songbook, was composed by Hoagy Carmichael with lyrics by Mitchell Parish. The song was first recorded in 1927 and has since been covered by numerous artists. Rod Stewart, in his exploration of classic American standards, included a poignant rendition of "Stardust" on his 2004 album "Stardust: The Great American Songbook, Volume III."
Stewart's interpretation of "Stardust" is a testament to his ability to infuse classic songs with his own distinctive style. The album, part of his Great American Songbook series, pays homage to the iconic tunes that have defined American popular music. "Stardust," with its dreamy melody and evocative lyrics, finds a new home in Stewart's repertoire.
The lyrics of "Stardust" are poetic and nostalgic, weaving a tapestry of romance and yearning. The opening lines, "Sometimes I wonder why I spend the lonely night, dreaming of a song. The melody haunts my reverie, and I am once again with you," set the tone for a journey into the past, where memories are as vivid as the stars in the night sky. The song's enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport listeners to a world of timeless romance and wistful reflection.
Rod Stewart's version of "Stardust" is marked by his soulful and raspy vocals, which add a unique texture to the classic ballad. The arrangement is lush and atmospheric, capturing the ethereal quality of the song. The orchestration, featuring sweeping strings and subtle instrumentation, complements Stewart's vocals and enhances the dreamlike atmosphere of the track.
One of the strengths of Stewart's interpretation lies in his ability to convey the emotional depth of the lyrics. As he croons about the enchantment of a starlit night and the memories it invokes, his delivery is sincere and evocative. Stewart's nuanced phrasing and vocal expressions bring out the nostalgia and longing embedded in the song, creating a poignant and immersive listening experience.
Stewart's "Stardust" is not merely a cover but a reimagining that pays homage to the classic while allowing him to put his own stamp on it. The song becomes a canvas for his artistic interpretation, showcasing his deep appreciation for the rich tradition of American songwriting. In the hands of Rod Stewart, "Stardust" becomes a timeless and soul-stirring journey through the realms of love and memory.
In conclusion, Rod Stewart's rendition of "Stardust" is a captivating exploration of a classic ballad. His soulful interpretation, coupled with an exquisite musical arrangement, captures the essence of the song's timeless beauty. Stewart's contribution to the Great American Songbook series not only preserves the legacy of these iconic tunes but also reinvigorates them for a contemporary audience. With "Stardust," Rod Stewart pays homage to the enduring magic of classic American standards, ensuring that the stars of the Great American Songbook continue to shine brightly in the musical landscape.
Video
Lyrics
Let's sing along with the lyrics!
And now the purple dusk of twilight time
Steals across the meadows of my heart
High up in the sky the little stars climb
Always reminding me that we're apart
You wander down the lane and far away
Leaving me a song that will not die
Love is now the stardust of yesterday
The music of the years gone by.
Sometimes I wonder, how I spend
The lonely nights
Dreaming of a song
The melody
Haunts my reverie
And I am once again with you
When our love was new
And each kiss an inspiration
But that was long ago
And now my consolation is in the stardust of a song
Besides the garden wall, when stars are bright
You are in my arms
The nightingale
Tells his fairytale
Of paradise, where roses grew
Though I dream in vain
In my heart it will remain
My stardust melody
The memory of love's refrain.