And yet Charlie Barnet was only significant in jazz for about a decade (1939-1949). Although his family wanted him to be a lawyer, he was a professional musician by the time he was 16 and ironically in his career made more money than he would have in business. Barnet arrived in New York in 1932 and started leading bands on records the following year, but his career was quite erratic until 1939. Many of Barnet's early records are worthy but some are quite commercial as he attempted to find a niche. Best is a sideman appearance on a 1934 Red Norvo date that also includes Artie Shaw and Teddy Wilson.
In 1939, with the hit recording of "Cherokee" and a very successful run at the Famous Door in New York, Charlie Barnet soon became a household name. In addition to the fine trumpeter Bobby Burnet (who soloed on many of Barnet's Bluebird records), such sidemen as guitarist Bus Etri; drummer Cliff Leeman; singers Lena Horne, Francis Wayne, and Kay Starr; pianist Dodo Marmarosa; clarinetist Buddy DeFranco; guitarist Barney Kessel; and even trumpeter Roy Eldridge spent time with Barnet's bands. Although at the height of his popularity during 1939-1942 (when his orchestra could often play a close imitation of Ellington's), Barnet's recordings for Decca during 1942-1946 were also of great interest with "Skyliner" being a best-seller.
By 1947 Barnet was starting to look toward bop. Clark Terry was his star trumpeter that year, and in 1949 his screaming trumpet section included Maynard Ferguson, Doc Severinsen, Rolf Ericson, and Ray Wetzel. Barnet, however, soon lost interest and near the end of 1949 he broke up his band. Semi-retired throughout the remainder of his life, Charlie Barnet occasionally led swing-oriented big bands during short tours and appearances, making his last recording in 1966.
Charleston alley
Charlie Barnet Lyrics
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The Cult of Personality
I know your anger, I know your dreams
I′ve been everything you wanna be ohhh...
I'm the Cult of Personality
Like Mussolini and Kennedy
I′m the Cult of Personality
The Cult of Personality
Neon lights, Nobel Prize
When a leader speaks, the reflection lies
You won't have to follow me
Only you can set me free
I sell the things you need to be
I'm the smiling face of your T.V. ohh...
I′m the Cult of Personality
I exploit you; still you love me
I tell you one and one makes three ohh...
I′m the Cult of Personality
Like Joseph Stalin and Gandhi ohh...
I'm the Cult of Personality
The Cult of Personality
The Cult of Personality
Neon lights, Nobel Prize
When a leader speaks, that leader dies
You won′t have to follow me
Only you can set you free
(Guitar solo)
You gave me fortune, you gave me fame
You gave me power in your God's name
I′m every person you need to be ohh...
I'm, the, Cult, of, Per, Son, Al, Ity
I am the Cult of Personality
"Charleston Alley" is a lively jazz instrumental by Charlie Barnet. The song title itself refers to a place, Charleston Alley, which could be a reference to a specific area in Charleston, South Carolina, known for its lively and vibrant atmosphere. The song captures the essence of this energetic and bustling alley through its upbeat tempo and dynamic instrumentation.
The lyrics of the song focus more on showcasing the talent and skill of the musicians rather than conveying a deeper meaning. The repeated refrain of "I am the Cult of Personality" emphasizes the charismatic and captivating nature of the performer. This can be interpreted as a declaration of his unique and influential presence, which draws people in and holds their attention. The mention of figures like Mussolini, Kennedy, Joseph Stalin, and Gandhi associates the performer with historical personalities who commanded attention and had a significant impact on people's lives.
The mention of neon lights and Nobel Prize adds a touch of glamour and ambition to the song, suggesting that the performer has achieved fame and recognition. The line "When a leader speaks, the reflection lies" suggests a hint of skepticism, implying that the performer might manipulate or distort the truth to maintain his hold on the audience. Ultimately, the song is a celebration of the power and allure of a charismatic figure, someone who captivates the masses and becomes an icon of their time.
Line by Line Meaning
Look in my eyes, what do you see?
Look at me closely, what do you perceive or understand about my true nature?
The Cult of Personality
It represents a notion or belief system centered around the influence of a charismatic and influential individual.
I know your anger, I know your dreams
I am aware of the deep emotions, both negative and positive, that drive you.
I′ve been everything you wanna be ohhh...
I have assumed various roles and achieved the things you aspire to become.
Like Mussolini and Kennedy
Similar to the influential figures of Mussolini and Kennedy.
Neon lights, Nobel Prize
References to flashy displays and prestigious recognition.
When a leader speaks, the reflection lies
When a powerful figure communicates, their words may not always reflect the truth.
You won't have to follow me
You are not obligated to be under my control or guidance.
Only you can set me free
Only you possess the power to liberate yourself from the influence I exert.
I sell the things you need to be
I offer and promote the attributes or possessions that you believe are necessary for your desired identity.
I'm the smiling face of your T.V. ohh...
I am the charismatic and appealing persona presenting through your television screens.
I exploit you; still you love me
Despite taking advantage of your vulnerabilities, you still harbor affection or admiration for me.
I tell you one and one makes three ohh...
I manipulate or deceive you by distorting logical concepts, making you believe in false truths.
Like Joseph Stalin and Gandhi ohh...
Similar to the influential individuals like Joseph Stalin and Gandhi.
You gave me fortune, you gave me fame
You bestowed upon me wealth and recognition.
You gave me power in your God's name
You attributed authority or influence to me on behalf of your beliefs or faith.
I′m every person you need to be ohh...
I can personify every character or role that you aspire to embody.
I'm, the, Cult, of, Per, Son, Al, Ity
I am the embodiment of the concept, power, and allure of a cult of personality.
Writer(s): Leroy Kirkland, Robert Bruce Wright
Contributed by Jeremiah H. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@23DanielVincent
I think that this is the best version of this song hands down.
@bobtaylor170
Sensational piece of music. I've never understood the reason for its relative obscurity.
@snuffy39
Trumpet solo is by Bobby Burnet
@wannawatchu66
This piece was inspired by an evening the band spent in Charleston's red-light district.
@postatility9703
If you haven't ever heard,be sure to check out Lambert Hendricks and Ross' version of this.
@carolien141
who's on trumpet?