Lounging At The Waldorf
Here's Lounging At The Waldorf, the 5th transcription in my series of Fats' so-called Swingopations. It's a great instrumental and was given lyrics and an ingeniously clever vocal arrangement [based on the actual original performance] for the Broadway stage musical tribute to Fats, "Ain't Misbehavin".
Fats is in fine form here with his witty remarks (not to mention amazing vocal sound effects!) which play as a sort of satirical commentary on the meeting of various social classes back in the days of Harlem in the swinging 30s.
So to fill the empty spaces left in his piano playing during these remarks and to create a complete performance, I've added material by adapting Fats' existing piano playing. I also incorporated some moments from the Broadway musical tribute version. (See [...]). I understand and appreciate some dismissing the Broadway musical tribute as not at all representative of Fats and His Rhythm. Personally, authentic-sounding or not, I feel it is nevertheless an irresistible and joyous celebration of Fats' musical legacy and worthy of attention, especially thanks to Luther Henderson's piano playing and musical direction.
Adding to this, Fats' piano is quite low in the mix - his LH is barely audible throughout - so, several informed guesses were necessary for this arrangement hence my inclusion of "adapted by" in the credits. I have endeavoured to remain as faithful to Fats' piano playing style as possible with these additions. Listen to the actual recording and provide your own versions! N.B. The ending is adapted from the other band member's parts as Fats' playing is again barely audible.
Here is the original for the ultimate audio reference:
Here is the published version:
Youtube.com noteman
