What makes It Had to Be You… The Great American Songbook by Rod Stewart notable?

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. 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.

Who is It Had to Be You… The Great American Songbook for?

It Had to Be You… The Great American Songbook works well if you're into intimate evening ambiance, heartfelt emotional reflections and smooth, soothing background music.

How many songs are on It Had to Be You… The Great American Songbook?

It Had to Be You… The Great American Songbook has 14 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.

It Had to Be You… The Great American Songbook

Rod Stewart · 2002

49 min · 14 tracks · new wave · R&B · blues rock

Rod Stewart's smooth croon caresses timeless standards with a blend of jazz-infused melodies and heartfelt emotion.

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Why this album works

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.

Best for: intimate evening ambiance heartfelt emotional reflections smooth, soothing background music
Context: 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.
Stylistic neighbors: Kate Bush· Kim Wilde· Duran Duran· David Bowie· Bee Gees· Joe Jackson· Ringo Starr· giorge mijael

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Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 You Go to My Head Standout 4:17
2 They Can’t Take That Away From Me Standout 3:25
3 The Way You Look Tonight Standout 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

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata

What to play next

Listen next

As Time Goes By… The Great American Songbook, Volume II

2003

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Human

2001

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blues rock new wave