About this album
Where they were
By 2002, Rod Stewart was in the midst of a successful career resurgence, following his critically acclaimed album 'When We Were the New Boys' in 1998. 'It Had to Be You… The Great American Songbook' marked his first foray into classic standards, showcasing his ability to reinterpret and breathe new life into these iconic tracks. This album not only solidified his status as a versatile artist but also introduced him to a new generation of listeners.
Why it matters
This album was notable for its commercial success, debuting at number 4 on the Billboard 200 and demonstrating Stewart's enduring appeal across different musical landscapes. It was also pivotal in reviving interest in the Great American Songbook, influencing other artists to explore similar styles. Critics praised his interpretations, with many noting that it revitalized classic songs for contemporary audiences.
Essential tracks
- "You Go to My Head" — The opening track sets the tone with its lush arrangement and showcases Stewart's emotive vocal delivery, perfectly capturing the essence of romantic nostalgia.
- "They Can’t Take That Away From Me" — Stewart infuses this standard with a soulful warmth that highlights both his vocal prowess and the song's poignant lyrics about love’s endurance.
- "The Way You Look Tonight" — This rendition stands out for its elegant instrumentation and romantic sentiment, illustrating Stewart's knack for making classic songs feel fresh and relevant.
- "These Foolish Things" — A hallmark of the album, this track exemplifies Stewart's ability to convey deep emotion through his interpretation, resonating strongly with listeners.
Release Date
October 22, 2002
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
- 1 You Go to My Head 4:17
- 2 They Can’t Take That Away From Me 3:25
- 3 The Way You Look Tonight 3:49
- 4 It Had to Be You 3:24
- 5 That Old Feeling 2:54
- 6 These Foolish Things 3:48
- 7 The Very Thought of You 3:20
- 8 Moonglow 3:32
- 9 I’ll Be Seeing You 3:51
- 10 Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbye 3:27
- 11 The Nearness of You 3:00
- 12 For All We Know 3:24
- 13 We’ll Be Together Again 3:54
- 14 That’s All 3:03