My dad loved jazz and classical music. He preferred female singers, his two favorites were Linda Ronstadt and Nina Simone. I loved when he let me go into the basement, open the closet he’d converted to house his extensive record collection, and choose the music for Sunday dinner.
I’m thinking about his musical tastes because today is Vera Lynn’s 100th birthday.
My dad was born int Hamilton, Ontario, Canada in 1931. Before his 8th birthday, Canada had entered World War II and remained at War until just before his 14th. His father left to join the army and was gone for most of that time. I remember Dad telling me that, as they grew up, he and his friends just expected that they would go to war too. It was that much a part of their formative years.
It was from my dad, and his wide-ranging musical tastes, that I first heard of Vera Lynn, The Forces Sweetheart. I loved her songs, so poignant and yet so full of hope. And so I leave you with one of my favorites.
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Adrienne, your slice is masterfully written, sharing slivers of life spanning three generations to make up your own personal sliver. Such crafting to achieve a poignant tone skillfully blended with a celebratory tone! The Vera Lynn clip “We’ll Meet Again,” with its haunting war scenes and sad melody and parting words of solace, is a perfect ending: “They’ll be happy to know, That, as I saw you go, You were singing this song.”
A beautiful post. My father-in-law loved music, especially the big bands. He passed this love to Kathy. My mom was more into music than my dad was so we always had music in the house.
I loved the song-link you shared. It reminds me of my Dad who fought in WWII. Thanks for the memories.
Music from one age to the next invokes incredible memories. Interesting how it intertwines throughout our lives.
Wow, your dad an ear for great music! I love both Lisa and Nina. I’m so glad that you have music to remember your dad by–that’s a gift.