He emerged in the 1970s and at the time he was considered to be one of the few musicians of real talent who carried the tradition of the classic jazz tenor saxophone in the style of Ben Webster, Coleman Hawkins as well as Zoot Sims and Don Byas forward. He began playing in various rhythm & blues outfits in Providence (Rhode Island), but subsequently shifted to jazz and the tenor saxophone. In 1976 he moved to New York City at, in part the recommendation of Roy Eldridge. He there joined Benny Goodman for a period of time. During this time, he also developed an alcohol problem.,[1] In the early 1980's he had formed his own quintet and toured all over the world. By then free from his drinking habit, in 1982 he had matured sufficiently to be able to break away from the spell of mainly Ben Webster and Zoot Sims, of whom he had been criticized of imitating. From this point on both his playing and his tone was very much his own.
Living in New York City, he toured all around the world during the 1980's, playing Japan and all over Europe. He was in particular a recurrent visitor to the UK, Sweden and the Grand Parade du Jazz, held in Nice, France. By the early 1990's he was ready for a next step and by 1994 when he released Organic Duke, he had developed a quite singular style: a large, well rounded but still focused tone and improvising, ostensibly still based on the swing idiom (especially Ellington), but incorporating more modern elements. During this period, he relocated to London, and formed his current quartet, featuring John Pearce (p), Dave Green (b) and Steve Brown (dr). He is currently active touring all over Europe.
He has had over forty albums as a lead most on the Concord Records label.
The Lamp Is Low
Scott Hamilton Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Dream and watch the shadows came and go, the lamp Is low
While you linger in my arms, my lips will sigh "I love you so"
Dream the sweetest dream will ever know
Tonight the moon is high, the lamp Is low
Dream beside me in the midnight glow, the lamp Is low
Dream and watch the shadows came and go, the lamp Is low
Dream the sweetest dream will ever know
Tonight the moon is high, the lamp Is low
The lyrics to Scott Hamilton's song "The Lamp Is Low" evoke a sense of intimacy and romanticism. The singer invites someone to join them in a dreamlike state, where they can bask in the soft glow of a low lamp in the midnight hour. It is a setting that promotes a deep connection and allows the lovers to escape into their own world.
The repeated line "Dream beside me in the midnight glow, the lamp Is low" emphasizes the atmosphere of the moment. It suggests a desire for the two individuals to share their dreams and experiences, while also acknowledging the fleeting nature of these moments as the shadows come and go. It highlights the vulnerability and tenderness of the relationship, as the singer opens their arms and expresses their love for the other person, hoping to create a lasting and beautiful memory.
The mention of the moon being high further adds to the ethereal quality of the scene. It heightens the sense of tranquility and sets the stage for a deeply introspective and intimate experience. Overall, the lyrics of "The Lamp Is Low" paint a picture of a serene and romantic moment, inviting the listener to imagine themselves in a world of love and dreams.
Line by Line Meaning
Dream beside me in the midnight glow, the lamp Is low
Imagine being with me in the soft illumination of midnight, with the lamp casting a gentle glow.
Dream and watch the shadows came and go, the lamp Is low
Imagine watching the fleeting shadows dancing and shifting as they move, while the lamp continues to emit a low and calming light.
While you linger in my arms, my lips will sigh "I love you so"
As you stay tenderly embraced in my arms, my lips will whisper affectionate words expressing the intensity of my love for you.
Dream the sweetest dream will ever know
Imagine indulging in the most beautiful dream that will ever grace your consciousness.
Tonight the moon is high, the lamp Is low
In this particular evening, the moon shines brightly in the sky while the lamp continues to radiate its gentle and calming light.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: JULE STYNE, SAMMY CAHN
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind