It Could Happen To You

“It Could Happen To You” was composed by Jimmy Van Heusen with lyrics by Johnny Burke and was first introduced in the 1944 film And the Angels Sing. Chet Baker’s rendition is particularly known for his smooth, emotive vocal delivery and trumpet playing. Baker captures the unexpected nature of love with his relaxed and effortless style in this version.

The song features a medium swing rhythm with a flowing and smooth melodic line. In Baker’s interpretation, the trumpet and vocals blend seamlessly, highlighting the song’s laid-back and romantic feel. The harmonic progression is rooted in traditional jazz chords, providing a sense of familiarity and ease for the performers, while the rhythm section maintains the gentle flow of the piece.

When performing this song, it’s essential to preserve its relaxed atmosphere. The piano should provide soft harmonic support, while the drums and bass maintain a steady tempo with a light touch. Drawing inspiration from Chet Baker’s style, solos should be approached with simplicity and a melodic focus rather than technical complexity. The key to a successful performance lies in balancing individual expression with the overall smooth and cohesive flow of the piece.