About the song
“Fly Me to the Moon,” originally titled “In Other Words,” is a timeless classic in the American songbook, written in 1954 by Bart Howard. Howard, a seasoned musician and songwriter, crafted the song as a heartfelt ode, initially intended for his partner of 58 years, Thomas Fowler. Drawing inspiration from his experiences as a piano accompanist in New York City’s cabaret scene, Howard aimed to create a simple yet evocative ballad in the style favored by his idol, Cole Porter.
The song’s journey began with its first commercial recording by Kaye Ballard in 1954, released by Decca Records. Initially featured as the B-side to “Lazy Afternoon,” Ballard’s rendition showcased the song’s emotive qualities, earning praise for its tender delivery and lyrical depth. Despite early iterations under its original title, it wasn’t until the 1960s that “Fly Me to the Moon” gained widespread recognition, particularly through Frank Sinatra’s iconic interpretation.
Sinatra’s 1964 recording of “Fly Me to the Moon” not only propelled the song to new heights of popularity but also became intrinsically linked with NASA’s Apollo missions to the Moon. Sinatra’s smooth vocals, coupled with Quincy Jones’ masterful arrangement in a 4/4 time signature, infused the song with a timeless elegance and a sense of adventure fitting for the space age.
In 1999, “Fly Me to the Moon” was rightfully honored by the Songwriters Hall of Fame as a “Towering Song,” recognizing its enduring cultural impact and musical excellence. Over the years, the song has been covered by numerous jazz and cabaret artists, each bringing their unique interpretation to its beloved melody. Artists such as Chris Connor, Johnny Mathis, Nancy Wilson, and Eydie Gormé have all contributed to its rich legacy, further cementing its status as a standard in popular music.
Beyond its musical acclaim, “Fly Me to the Moon” continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, evoking themes of romance, aspiration, and the timeless allure of the unknown. Its inclusion in space exploration narratives adds a layer of cultural significance, underscoring its ability to inspire and captivate across generations.
In essence, “Fly Me to the Moon” remains a testament to Bart Howard’s songwriting prowess and Sinatra’s enduring artistry, symbolizing the human spirit’s quest for love, adventure, and discovery in both earthly and celestial realms.
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Lyrics
Fly me to the moon
Let me play among the stars
Let me see what spring is like
On a, Jupiter and Mars
In other words, hold my hand
In other words, baby, kiss me
Fill my heart with song
And let me sing for ever more
You are all I long for
All I worship and adore
In other words, please be true
In other words, I love you
Fill my heart with song
Let me sing for ever more
You are all I long for
All I worship and adore
In other words, please be true
In other words, in other words
I love you.