Behind file 11 is a yellow-labeled MGM 45 rpm, complete with the trademark lion’s head. This copy is from 1951. It’s the famous Slaughter On Tenth Avenue, from the 1949 film Words and Music, a film which I have never seen.
If you don’t know the record by name, you’ll know it by the famous opening on Side A. I recognized the sound right away. There are no lyrics whatsoever on this 45 rpm. It was written by Richard Rodgers, and first appeared in the Broadway musical/ballet On Your Toes in 1936.
This music occurs during a rather tragic scene, one which I won’t spoil in case you haven’t seen it. (although the title may give a bit away!)
Here are both sides A and B with Lennie Hayton as the orchestra leader.
I think you have to see the ballet to get the full effect of the music. I am not partial to this one at all.
What do you think of this?
I’ve heard the title, but don’t know anything about the origin of it. The trill dropping down an octave at the beginning does sound vaguely familiar, but if I’ve heard it, I can’t place where. Well-written music, though; I like it pretty well.
I don’t know where I’ve heard it, either!