A prolific composer of jazz standards, penning hits like "Angel Eyes" and "Everything Happens to Me", with a distinctive, soulful voice and elegant piano style.
Matt Dennis, born on February 11, 1914, was an American singer, pianist, band leader, arranger, and writer of music for popular songs. He is best known for his contributions to the jazz genre, penning iconic standards like "Angel Eyes" and "Everything Happens to Me."
Dennis was born in Seattle, Washington, to a musical family. His mother was a violinist, and his father a singer, and the family's involvement in vaudeville exposed him to music from an early age. Dennis began his music career in 1933, joining Horace Heidt's orchestra as a vocalist and pianist.
In the 1940s, Dennis formed his own band, featuring Dick Haymes as vocalist. He later became a vocal coach, arranger, and accompanist for Martha Tilton and worked with the Stafford Sisters, including Jo Stafford, who would later join the Tommy Dorsey band. It was through Jo Stafford that Dennis secured a position as arranger and composer for the Dorsey band, writing 14 songs that were recorded by the band in just one year, including "Everything Happens to Me," an early hit for Frank Sinatra.
Dennis served in the United States Air Force during World War II. After his service, he returned to music, writing and arranging for Dick Haymes' radio program, and collaborating with lyricist Tom Adair on numerous songs. Dennis went on to release six albums, which, although out of print for many years, have since been re-released and celebrated.
Matt Dennis' contributions to jazz are undeniable. His songs, such as "Angel Eyes" and "Will You Still Be Mine," have become staples of the genre, with legendary musicians like Miles Davis and Sonny Rollins recording their own interpretations. In 2012, Jasmine Records released "Welcome Matt," a collection of Dennis' recordings, including a 1958 live performance of his piano trio.
Matt Dennis passed away on June 21, 2002, at the age of 88, in Riverside, California. His legacy as a songwriter, arranger, and musician continues to inspire new generations of jazz enthusiasts and musicians alike.
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