“Friends of the Northern Jazz Trio performing Hoagy Carmichael’s ‘The Nearness of You’, featuring Karen Lai (vox), Ronald De Leon (p.), Christina Wang (b.), Sivasilan (d.), Jens Bunge (harmonica), Ng Ling Cheng (trumpet) and Vince De Leon (saxophone). Recorded live at China House, Penang on 30th December 2011.”
(Source: Youtube, accessed 08.13 on 13.01.2011).
Here is a live performance of Karen Lai and her ensemble performing “The nearness of you”. If you are a jazz enthusiast like me, then you’ll want to follow upcoming performances too by subscribing to Karen’s youtube channel.
Lyrics for Norah Jones “The Nearness of You”
“The Nearness Of You”
It’s not the pale moon that excites meThat thrills and delights me, oh no
It’s just the nearness of youIt isn’t your sweet conversation
That brings this sensation, oh no
It’s just the nearness of youWhen you’re in my arms and I feel you so close to me
All my wildest dreams came trueI need no soft lights to enchant me
If you’ll only grant me the right
To hold you ever so tight
And to feel in the night the nearness of you
Source: azlyrics.com accessed at 8.23am on 13.01.2011.
The above lyrics for “The Nearness of You” were written by Ned Jones and Hoagy Carmichael for the “Romance in the Dark” movie. It was recorded by Hoagy Carmichael in 1937. The film was released in 1938 by Paramount. It was sung by lead actress Gladys Swarthout. However the biggest selling version was recorded by the Glenn Miller Orchestra with Ray Eberle. Since then, the lyrics have been performed by Diana Krall and Norah Jones, and now Karen Lai.
Many years ago, when we were both living at Weir House, Karen and I had great fun practising together in the music room. I would play the piano and Karen would sing along. What fun!
As you can see, Karen has taken her music much further. I’ve got a long long way to catch up. Something to work towards I think. So, don’t be surprised if you find me on your door step, asking you if you play any instruments, or like to sing, as I go searching for people to put a band together! Anyone interested, let me know by writing your comments below.
Alice Letts 