“Fly Me to the Moon” is an enduring classic, a song that has serenaded generations and even journeyed to space. Many recognize its melody and romantic lyrics, but the question often arises: who sang “Fly Me to the Moon”? While written by Bart Howard in 1954, its vocal history is rich and varied, featuring interpretations from some of the most legendary voices in music history.
Bart Howard, though a talented songwriter and pianist who graced New York cabarets like the Blue Angel, was not primarily a singer himself. His strength lay in crafting songs, and “Fly Me to the Moon,” originally titled “In Other Words,” was a testament to his songwriting prowess. Mabel Mercer, a distinguished cabaret singer whom Howard admired, was among the first to recognize his talent, though she sang another of his compositions, “If You Leave Paris,” early in his career.
The singer who first popularized “Fly Me to the Moon” and brought it into the public consciousness was Peggy Lee. In 1956, two years after Howard penned it, Peggy Lee recorded “Fly Me to the Moon.” Her rendition, with its subtle jazz arrangement and Lee’s signature sultry vocals, became a hit and is widely credited with launching the song into the American Songbook canon. Lee’s version established the song’s gentle, romantic mood that resonated with audiences.
However, when most people think of “Fly Me to the Moon,” it is often Frank Sinatra’s iconic version that comes to mind. Arranged by Quincy Jones in 1964 for Sinatra’s album “It Might as Well Be Swing,” this rendition took the song to stratospheric heights of fame. Significantly, it was this upbeat, swinging arrangement by Sinatra that became indelibly linked with space exploration when it was played on the Apollo 10 and Apollo 11 missions to the moon. Sinatra’s confident and dynamic performance solidified “Fly Me to the Moon” as a global standard and a symbol of American optimism and romance.
Beyond Peggy Lee and Frank Sinatra, countless artists have lent their voices to “Fly Me to the Moon,” demonstrating its universal appeal. Jazz vocalists like Julie London, instrumental versions by artists like Count Basie, and contemporary pop singers have all embraced the song. Diana Krall, Tony Bennett, and many others have recorded their interpretations, proving the song’s timeless quality and adaptability across genres.
In conclusion, while Bart Howard wrote the unforgettable “Fly Me to the Moon,” it was Peggy Lee who first made it famous, and Frank Sinatra who cemented its iconic status, particularly through its association with the moon landing era. The song’s enduring popularity, however, is also a testament to the many talented vocalists who have embraced it, each adding their unique touch to this beloved jazz standard and ensuring its continued flight through generations.
