Frank Sinatra “Look to Your Heart”

This 12 song Capitol release from 1959 is considered a “compilation” I guess—songs from previous records—earlier in the decade (Fifties)—but to me it sounds like it could have been recorded in one session, on a Wednesday, say, in March (a day much like today, but before I was born—you know, 60 to 70 years ago). I suppose it’s all Nelson Riddle orchestra. And the picture on the cover could have been taken from this (imaginary) session—Sinatra, suit and loosened collar, white tie, hat with a band that resembles a coral snake. But no, I guess—someone put these songs together from the archives, and found this really nice photo from the archives, with his hand over his heart—not unlike yours—the one he's telling you to look to. I’d like to think he approved the song selection, the production, the cover photo, and the goofy graphics on back—and then they all went out to eat somewhere, steaks and martinis, with the crowds kept away, more or less. But what do I know about Sinatra? I’ve been reading some musician bios lately—I like them—what’s the best Sinatra bio? Or is it that documentary that came out a few years back—where can I find that, now? People have all different measures of success, and I’m sure Sinatra’s varies from “the usual” to… unique. For me, for instance, not having to write my own synopses, monitor love on a smartphone, or get into a flying machine are all fantasies I’d consider: “you’ve got it made.” What could be better? Well, songs at my fingertips. That would be, even, better. By the way, my favorite songs here are: “Anytime-Anywhere,” “When I Stop Loving You,” “If I Had Three Wishes,” “Look to Your Heart,” “You, My Love,” and “Same Old Saturday Night.” Though, all twelve are fine—and fit together like a deli sandwich. There’s a uniform excellence, indeed, no clunkers, nothing that makes you feel the least bit like you’d rather be on another planet—even if that’s the way you feel, in general, a lot of time.

3.14.25