A popular and prolific songwriter, recording artist and
globally renowned performer, Mark Winkler has developed an enduring affinity
for the great Bobby Troup. While perhaps best known for his spirited standard
“Route 66,” the legendary singer, pianist, tunesmith and master lyricist left
behind a deep and wild treasure trove of quirky/playful and
heartfelt/melancholy songs from which Winkler has gotten his kicks since
releasing Mark Winkler Sings Bobby Troup in 2003.
Having recently discovered
new overlooked gems in the Troup canon, the singer pays homage to his kindred
spirit once again on his latest album I’M WITH YOU. The 12-track collection is
a unique gathering of freshly re-imagined Troup songs. This project came about
when Troup’s two daughters, Ronne and Cynnie, and Ronne’s husband Bob Bayles,
gifted Winkler with a box of Troup’s personal sheet music and eight CDs of
Troup tunes.
“It’s as easy as pie for me to sing Bobby Troup songs,” Winkler
says. “Once I choose the tunes I want to create new arrangements for, I
approach the songs very easily. I feel like I understand him. We’ve got things
in common. He swings and I love to swing. He’s funny, clever and whimsical, yet
could also write and sing the blues. As a songwriter, I am always aspiring to
achieve that same range of emotions.” Longtime Winkler fans will feel the
familiar coolness with his vibrant takes on these gems.
No comments:
Post a Comment