In 1969, the Classics IV released the single, “Traces.” It made it to #2 on Billboard’s Hot 100, and it was BMI’s top 100 songs of the century at #32.
“Traces” has had many lives over the years being covered by many artists. With the exception to “Colour My World,” “Traces” probably has been played at more oldies parties, dances, and high school proms than most.
“Traces” is a piece that many can relate to. It has the earmarks of past relationships, fitting and unfitting. Running the clock up to summer 2017, west coast jazz/blues artist, Marlena, has brought “Traces” back to life.
A beautiful artist covering a beautiful song, Marlena takes this vintage piece to a new level. Her voice compliments “Traces”. I love the how the sax introduces and concludes this piece. As the sax’s ending drifts away in silence, it reminds me of one’s past.
Having many lives throughout the years, “Traces” once again has an audience. Marlena does something special to “Traces” in that she approaches the song with passion in her voice. While listening to Marlena’s “Traces,” you get a “feel good” emotion although the song is sentimentally sad. I’m J.R. Joseph Miller, and this is Marlena romancing “Traces.”
When you hear music such as “Brother Can You Spare a Dime,” “Somewhere over the Rainbow,” or “I Like the Likes of You,” what is the common denominator? The answer is Edgar “Yip” Harburg. One of the best singer/lyricists of the 20th century, Yip lived an unbelievable journey where he helped write the best in American music. Remember The Wizard of Oz? Yip wrote the song lyrics.
