A Fantastic Foursome That’s Season Appropriate

Time for another of our ‘fantastic foursome’ posts. Today’s choice is perfectly suited to what I see when I look out my window.

Although “Autumn Leaves” has become a familiar standard, you might be surprised to learn that it started life as a French song titled “Les Feuilles Mortes” (“The Dead Leaves”), and was introduced by French star Yves Montand in the 1946 film, Les Portes de la Nuit. A year or two later, Johnny Mercer wrote some English lyrics and it became a popular standard for countless artists.

Roger Williams’ 1955 record of the song hit the top of the pop charts, the first piano instrumental to ever do so. You can listen to his version while enjoying the  Autumn scenery in the video below, and below that you will find four other versions of the song and an opportunity to vote for your favorite.

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Andy Williams – Doris Day – Hank Garland – Nat King Cole