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.
I Can't Get Started
Charlie Barnet Lyrics
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I've settled revolutions in Spain
And the North Pole I have charted
Still I can't get started with you
On the golf course, I'm under par
Metro Goldwyn have asked me to star
I've got a house, a showplace
'Cause you're so supreme
Lyrics I write of you, I dream
Dream day and night of you
And I scheme just for the sight of you
Baby, what good does it do?
I've been consulted by Franklin D
Greta Garbo has had me to tea
Still I'm broken-hearted
'Cause I can't get started with you
In Charlie Barnet's "I Can't Get Started," the singer sings about their achievements and accomplishments, highlighting how even after achieving all these great things, they still can't seem to start a romantic relationship with the person they desire. The singer mentions flying around the world on a plane, settling revolutions in Spain and charting the North Pole, as well as being under par on the golf course and having been asked to star in a movie by Metro Goldwyn. Despite having a nice home and being successful in many areas, they still can't seem to make any headway with the person they desire.
The singer goes on to describe how much they dream and scheme about this person, but their efforts seem to be in vain. They've even been consulted by former President Franklin D. Roosevelt and have had tea with Hollywood icon Greta Garbo, but they're still unable to win over the person they desire. The song is a classic example of the feeling of longing for someone who seems unattainable, even for someone who has accomplished so much.
Line by Line Meaning
I've flown around the world in a plane
I've traveled the world, experienced many things.
I've settled revolutions in Spain
I've been part of history, helped bring about change in Spain.
And the North Pole I have charted
I've explored the world, even a harsh and remote place like the North Pole.
Still I can't get started with you
Despite all my accomplishments, I can't seem to get your attention and interest.
On the golf course, I'm under par
I'm a skilled golfer, playing better than par.
Metro Goldwyn have asked me to star
I've been offered a starring role in Hollywood by the famous studio Metro Goldwyn.
I've got a house, a showplace
I have an impressive home, a place to entertain and be proud of.
Still I can't get no place with you
Even with my success and status, I can't seem to get anywhere with you.
'Cause you're so supreme
You're the one I desire most, the ultimate in every way.
Lyrics I write of you, I dream
I can't stop thinking about you, even my creative output is focused on you.
Dream day and night of you
My thoughts and dreams are consumed by thoughts of you.
And I scheme just for the sight of you
I try to come up with plans and schemes just to catch a glimpse of you.
Baby, what good does it do?
But it all feels futile, because I can't seem to make any progress with you.
I've been consulted by Franklin D
Even important historical figures like President Franklin D. Roosevelt have sought my advice.
Greta Garbo has had me to tea
Even famous movie stars like Greta Garbo have invited me for tea.
Still I'm broken-hearted
But despite all this attention and success, I'm still deeply sad and unhappy because I can't win your affection.
Lyrics © MUSIC SALES CORPORATION, BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group, Royalty Network, Songtrust Ave, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Ira Gershwin, Vernon Duke
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind