About This Footage
This 1977 album version of "Lost In The Stars" is a rare gem that warrants attention from music enthusiasts and scholars alike. The clip's notoriety stems from its association with Patti Austin, an artist whose work has been largely overshadowed by her more prominent contemporaries. This particular track, however, showcases Austin's remarkable vocal range and emotional delivery.
The song itself is a cover of Kurt Weill's classic composition, originally written for the 1944 musical "Knickerbocker Holiday." Weill's collaboration with Maxwell Anderson on the lyrics resulted in a timeless piece that has been reinterpreted by numerous artists over the years. This version, produced by Dave Grusin and featuring a talented ensemble of musicians, stands out for its unique blend of jazz and classical influences.
The involvement of renowned arranger and producer Dave Grusin adds to the clip's significance. A master of his craft, Grusin has worked with an impressive array of artists across multiple genres, from pop to jazz to film scores. His contributions to this track are evident in the lush instrumentation and sophisticated harmonies that underpin Austin's performance.
The supporting cast of musicians is equally impressive, featuring a Who's Who of session players and sidemen from the 1970s and 1980s. The presence of tenor saxophonist Lou Marini, alto saxophonist Gerry Niewood, and trumpeter Alan Rubin adds to the clip's jazz credentials, while the contributions of Lani Groves, Gwen Guthrie, Yolanda McCullough, Ken Williams, and Patti Austin herself on background vocals demonstrate a deep understanding of Weill's complex melody.
The fact that this clip has been labeled as "rare" by YouTube suggests that it may have been previously unavailable or difficult to access. The 1994 release date for the album "The Best Of Patti Austin," which includes this track, provides context for why this particular version might be considered rare. Despite its relatively late release date, however, the clip's age and historical significance make it a valuable addition to any music archive.
In terms of its cultural importance, "Lost In The Stars" can be seen as a bridge between two musical worlds: the classical tradition represented by Weill and Anderson, and the jazz and pop influences that defined 1970s popular music. This clip serves as a reminder of the enduring power of Weill's compositions to transcend genre boundaries and inspire new interpretations.
The involvement of NME in this clip is also noteworthy, if only tangentially. As a prominent music publication during its heyday, NME played a significant role in shaping public opinion about music and artists. While their connection to this particular track is unclear, it adds another layer of interest to an already intriguing piece of musical history.
Ultimately, "Lost In The Stars" (Album Version) stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Kurt Weill's compositions and the remarkable talents of Patti Austin and her collaborators. Its rarity and historical significance make it a must-see for music enthusiasts and scholars interested in exploring the intersection of jazz, classical, and popular music traditions.
Curated from public records and music databases.
