Gershwin's Got Rhythm

Gershwin's Got A Lot of Rhythm:. His is probably the most recognized name among the major innovators who created the Great American Songbook. In addition to the hundreds of songs he wrote with brother Ira as lyricist, Gershwin wrote extended classical works like Rhapsody in Blue. Concerto in F, An American in Paris and his greatest extended work, the magnificent folk opera  Porgy and Bess.
His major acclaim was gained during the depression. His cheerful style of writing helped lift the spirits ofthe American public in much the same way as Fred Astaire and Ginger Rodgers films portrayed a world far removed from the economic woes affecting Americans at that time.

Songs like " I  Got Rhythm "  Fascinating Rhythm" Clap Y'o Hands" and " Swanee"  all reflect his preoccupation with hard driving, upbeat songs and are among his most popular works.
But he also was capable of writing more delicate and reflective songs like " How Long Has This Been Going On?" I,ve Got a Crush on You"  "Embraceable You" and  " But Not For Me."

This versatility is demonstrated first by " Fascinating Rhythm"  showing Gershwin at his most aggressive preocuupation with the beat that makes you tap your feet.

In this version, Fred and Adele Astaire are accompanied by Gershwin himself on piano. Listen to the jazzed up syncopation and rhymic verve of his playing. His insistent and percussive playing reflect Gershwin in full flight throwing any musical caution right out the window. 

PERFORMANCE LINK:
http://youtu.be/6BTM07B0U64

The Gentler Side of Gershwin:  George and Ira Gershwin also wrote a considerable number of songs that reflected a gentler and wistful mood, ballads that deal with various aspects of the male/female relationship. For example, " But Not For Me"  tells of a failed love relationship where " " "They're Writing Songs of Love but NOT for me". Traditionally, this song is often performed in a mournful and melancholy style. However, Rod Stewart, in his exploration of the Great American Songbook has put a fresh and upbeat face on this standard. He confesses the failure of his love affairs but is not totally crushed. One can sense that he will persist and eventually find his desired life partner. Since George Gershwin was a cheery and optimistic man, I think he would applaud Stewart's more positive and light hearted delivery of Ira's lyrics.
The great thing about the Great American Songbook catalogue is that the songs do lend themselves to a wide variety of approaches as Rod Stewart ably demonstrates in " But Not For Me"

PERFORMANCE LINK:  http://youtu.be/MMglhENOIVc