Recently I had the privilege of taking a vacation to Italy with my wife. We spent time in Rome and the Amalfi coast, beginning with the scenic coastal town of Sorrento. While roaming the streets I came across the statue above. I recognized the name of "Torna A Sorriento" as a song I've played on the show over the years but never knew exactly what it was about. Turns out the lyrics were penned in 1902 by Italian poet and painter Giambattista De Curtis along with his brother Ernesto De Curtis who wrote the music. Suddenly I'm standing in the place which inspired this song! The words describe the beauty of Sorrento with its many fragrant orange trees and unforgettable coast, and is a plea for a lover to return to this magical town. The tune has been recorded by the likes of Sinatra, Elvis, Pavarotti and Placido Domingo, as well as trios and singers featured on Serenata. On this week's show I begin by playing three different versions of this song as a tribute to this beautiful land indeed, and as an example of a wonderful connection between Italian and Latin music. Sorrento, one day I will return!
Playlist for Sunday September 30, 2018
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