Are you planning a 1930s themed event in the near future? Do you have your party’s song list all mapped out yet? If not, I may be able to help. I spent part of my career planning themed events. Thus, I happen to know of a few songs that would be perfect for such a shindig. Here they are:
“On the Sunny Side of the Street”
One of the first songs that I’d suggest grabbing a copy of is Dorothy Fields and Jimmy McHugh’s “On the Sunny Side of the Street.” From what I have witnessed during my party planning years, your guests are likely to love hearing it again. Over the years, many artists have also included the song onto their albums including the venerable Count Basie. I tend to like his version. You can find it on his album “On the Sunny Side of the Street.”
“Brother, Can You Spare a Dime”
In my opinion, no list of 1930s music would be complete without E.Y. Harburg and Jay Gorney’s song “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?” Personally, I can’t help but think of the decade every time I hear it played. You can find crooner Bing Crosby’s version of the hit on the album “His Greatest Hits of the Thirties.
“Over the Rainbow”
Speaking of E.Y. Harburg, his song “Over the Rainbow” is worthy of consideration too. Listening to it always makes me want to bust out a pair of ruby red slippers and search the sky for flying monkeys. As such, I tend to associate it with the “Wizard of Oz” movie more than the Great Depression. However, it was part of the decade, which makes it suitable for inclusion on any 1930s playlist.
“We’re In the Money”
I have found that Al Dubin and Harry Warren’s song “We’re in the Money” tends to be perfect for such an event as well. Many different singers have performed the song, including Fred Astaire. I tend to like his version of the song. You can find it on the album “Cocktail Hour” with other spectacular songs like “Puttin’ on the Ritz” and Irving Berlin’s “Cheek to Cheek.
“Pennies from Heaven”
In my opinion, Johnny Burke and Arthur Johnston’s song “Pennies from Heaven” should be on your party’s playlist too. It has great, upbeat lyrics and is a super song to dance to. A copy of it is available on Billie Holiday’s album “Billie Holiday – 16 Most Requested Songs.”
“Life is Just a Bowl of Cherries”
Lastly, I’d suggest throwing Lew Brown and Ray Henderson’s “Life is Just a Bowl of Cherries” onto your playlist as well. You can find a copy of the song on Rudy Vallee and His Connecticut Yankees’ album “Life is Just a Bowl of Cherries” and Doris Day’s “The Love Album.” If you ask me, both versions sound great.
Source: Personal Experience
More from this contributor:
Political Themed Drinks for Presidential Inauguration Parties
Interview with Professional DJ Tina T of Camp Spin Off
Top 5 Negative Political Ads from 1964 to 2008
Tips for Planning a Cocktail Party Menu
