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Created: Wednesday, 19 August 2015 20:08

Written by Shauna

May Release - "Dream a Little Dream of Me"

This song has been on my radar since 2014, before Chic Recordings was ever born. Deborah Carroll-Jones had used a version in the “Vocal Sweet Spot” session at CALLERLAB that year, but without her vocal range (few of us have her range) I was unable to make current recordings work for me without severely damaging the quality of the music. As a producer, you just know when a song’s time has finally come (at least I do), and it was finally time to “dream.”

I knew there were multiple choices, but the rendition that spoke to me was The Mamas and the Papas. Pretty guitar and piano, with some supporting “oohs and ahhs” in the background. The perfect foundation for Mama Cass, and the inspiration for our tracks.

During the music session, I was sitting on the couch chatting with Steve Moore and he asked me “did John Phillips write this song?” I was sure that he didn’t, but I didn’t know who did so I went to the source with today’s truth…Google. 😊 From Wikipedia: "’Dream a Little Dream of Me’ is a 1931 song with music by Fabian Andre and Wilbur Schwandt and lyrics by Gus Kahn. It was first recorded in February 1931 by Ozzie Nelson and also by Wayne King and His Orchestra, with vocals by Ernie Birchill. A popular standard, it has seen more than 60 other versions recorded, with one of the highest chart ratings by The Mamas & The Papas in 1968 with Cass Elliot on lead vocals.”

1931!?!!? Ozzie Nelson??? More than 60 other versions? I knew it wasn’t brand new, I’d heard the Doris Day and Louis Armstrong tracks. I knew it was popular, but more than 60 covers? I had no idea. But as we sat on the couch listening to Jimmy add the final touches, with the simple and beautiful lyric and melody floating around us a word came to my mind. Timeless. This song is timeless. Nearly 100 years after the first recording, the message is as relevant as the day it was written.

The vocal for the male range was recorded by Chic Recordings’ Staff Caller, Steve Moore. His voice was a perfect fit for this timeless song. The background vocals for both the male and female range tracks were provided by Shauna, along with Jimmy Mac.

The vocal for the female range was recorded by Chic Recordings’ Staff Caller, Patty Greene. Another perfect vocal fit!

To those callers (and there a a few) who argue that square dancing needs modern music, I respond. This music is as modern as it gets, using 21st century technology and quality of sound. When I hear a “current” song that speaks to me, I cut it. I have also been involved in sessions for other labels when they have done the same. But to throw away a timeless classic because it wasn’t written this year? Not this producer! I embrace them and try to do these timeless classics justice.

Here's my rationale. “Modern” is a meaningless term. In its place, I would choose “Relevant”. Is the song selection relevant? Open your ears and listen to the music being used in movie soundtracks and advertising. Don’t presume that because a song was written in 1930 that today’s kids don’t know it and love it. A few months ago, we were driving in downtown San Diego traffic. A convertible went by with three young men (early 20’s) enjoying the beautiful San Diego climate. Their car stereo was the kind you feel before you hear. As it neared I expected to hear the thump-thump of today's rap music. Instead, I got Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World!” It filled my heart and made me smile.

Evidence for what I already knew. Good music transcends age. Life experience and a connecting thread is what makes music relevant, and those threads are numberless. I am so grateful for music in my life and the many ways its threads have woven patterns and connected me to others in so many ways. All of you included!

CHIC 1078 in the male vocal range features the vocal by Steve Moore, Staff Caller.

CHIC 2078 in the female vocal range features Staff Caller, Patty Greene.

To purchase, just head on over to the Chic Boutique for fast and easy mp3 downloads.

Click on the youtube links (to the left) for previews!