I Remember You

“I Remember You” is a song composed by Victor Schertzinger with lyrics by Johnny Mercer, first introduced in 1941. The song was initially performed by Dorothy Lamour and William Holden in the film “The Fleet’s In.” Since then, it has been widely covered by numerous jazz musicians, becoming a standard in the jazz repertoire.

The song follows a 32-bar AABC structure, with the bridge section providing a contrast to the overall mood of the piece. The primary harmonic progression is relatively simple, but the harmonic development and melodic line in the bridge add a unique charm. Originally performed as a ballad, the song has been reinterpreted by jazz musicians in various rhythms and styles.

Understanding the original lyrics and emotions is crucial for effectively conveying the song’s sentiment through music. The bridge section allows for dynamic contrast and expressive shifts, and in the solo sections, musicians can add their own interpretations while staying true to the basic structure. Given the simplicity of the harmonic structure, there is ample opportunity for the performer to infuse the piece with unique expression. The rhythm section should respond flexibly to the emotional flow of the song, attentively listening to and complementing each other’s playing.