The Columbia Years 1943–1952: The V-Discs cover

The Columbia Years 1943–1952: The V-Discs

Frank Sinatra · 1994

146 min · 53 tracks · blues · jazz · swing

A nostalgic collection of romantic ballads and swing standards that epitomizes Sinatra's smooth vocal charm.

Why this album works

The V-Discs were created to boost morale among U.S. troops during WWII, making this collection historically significant for its role in wartime entertainment. Additionally, the album features some of Sinatra's most beloved tracks, many of which have become cornerstones of the traditional pop genre, influencing countless artists and styles over the decades. Its release was well-received, reinforcing Sinatra's legacy as one of the greatest vocalists in American history.
Best for
nostalgic romantic evening backdrop swaying rhythms for intimate moments gentle pacing with emotional peaks
Context
Released in 1994, this compilation captures Frank Sinatra’s early years with Columbia Records during a pivotal era from 1943 to 1952. By this point, he had already transitioned from big band fame to a solo artist, solidifying his status as a pop icon. The album highlights his formative recordings that helped shape the sound of American music post-World War II.

Tracklist

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

Disc 1

  • 1 I Only Have Eyes for You Standout 3:57
  • 2 Kiss Me Again 2:41
  • 3 (There’ll Be a) Hot Time in the Old Town of Berlin 2:27
  • 4 The Music Stopped 2:58
  • 5 I Couldn’t Sleep a Wink Last Night 2:59
  • 6 The Way You Look Tonight 2:40
  • 7 I’ll Be Around 1:39
  • 8 You’ve Got a Hold on Me 2:31
  • 9 A Lovely Way to Spend an Evening 3:09
  • 10 (I Got a Woman Crazy for Me) She’s Funny That Way 2:13
  • 11 Speak Low 2:20
  • 12 Close to You 3:12
  • 13 My Shining Hour 2:25
  • 14 Long Ago and Far Away 2:44
  • 15 Some Other Time 2:36
  • 16 Come Out, Come Out, Wherever You Are 2:01
  • 17 Put Your Dreams Away (For Another Day) 1:30
  • 18 And Then You Kissed Me 3:04
  • 19 All the Things You Are 2:51
  • 20 All of Me Standout 1:41
  • 21 Nancy (with the Laughing Face) 3:38
  • 22 Mighty Lak’ a Rose 3:42
  • 23 Falling in Love With Love 2:38
  • 24 Cradle Song (Brahms’ Lullaby) 2:47
  • 25 I’ll Follow My Secret Heart 2:37
  • 26 There’s No You 2:42
  • 27 Someone to Watch Over Me 2:07

Disc 2

  • 1 Let Me Love You Tonight 2:42
  • 2 Just Close Your Eyes 1:38
  • 3 If You Are but a Dream 3:45
  • 4 Strange Music 3:26
  • 5 Cradle Song (Brahms’ Lullaby) 2:36
  • 6 Dick Haymes, Dick Todd and Como 2:39
  • 7 None but the Lonely Heart 3:27
  • 8 Ol’ Man River Standout 4:10
  • 9 Homesick, That’s All 3:13
  • 10 The Night Is Young and You’re So Beautiful 2:11
  • 11 Aren’t You Glad You’re You 2:08
  • 12 You Brought a New Kind of Love to Me 1:36
  • 13 I’ll Never Smile Again 3:25
  • 14 Without a Song 2:19
  • 15 Was the Last Time I Saw You (The Last Time) 3:01
  • 16 Don’t Forget Tonight Tomorrow 2:27
  • 17 Oh! What It Seemed to Be 2:56
  • 18 Over the Rainbow 3:16
  • 19 Where Is My Bess 3:09
  • 20 My Romance 3:13
  • 21 The Song Is You 3:34
  • 22 I Fall in Love With You Ev’ry Day 1:47
  • 23 They Say It’s Wonderful 2:37
  • 24 You Are Too Beautiful 2:53
  • 25 Come Rain or Come Shine 2:27
  • 26 Stormy Weather 3:51

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata