A couple of months ago, I gave you a playlist for Songbird, the first book in The War Song Series. Today, I have another one for you for Song of Return, the second book in the series. This one too is full of big band hits and a few popular gospel songs from the late 1940s.
It was fun to put together! I just finished listening to it myself on a road trip for work. Enjoy Betty Hutton, Benny Goodman, The Andrew Sisters, Count Basie, Nat King Cole, Louis Armstrong, and more. “You made Me Love You” features the glorious trumpet of Harry James. There are two songs performed by one of my mom’s favorites – Doris Day. I also have one modern adaptation of Begin the Beguine by Harry Connick Jr. that can’t be beat! My favorite on the playlist, however, is “Choo Choo Ch’Boogie” by Louis Jordan & His Tympany Five. I got to perform this song in high school. It is so much fun to sing and dance too! I even remember some of the choreography.
Have I piqued your interest? Take a listen and go back in time with this playlist from the World War II and just after era - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2NsCEiS4JmzrFuThQBPA0a?si=_cc3rPIKR7mArG-9EVKJYg
“You take your morning paper from the top of the stack. And read the situation from the front to the back. The only job that’s open needs a man with a knack, so put it right back in the rack, Jack!”
Rosemary tapped her foot to the beat and watched Annamae’s red bob bounce up and down as she laughed and danced with Johnny.
“Choo choo, choo choo, ch’boogie! Woo woo, ooh ooh, ch’boogie!” the music continued.
Song of Return, Chapter 21