Sonny Boy
Al Jolson made a dramatic interpretation, and the dance bands played it normally. We used to play it with my arrangement for The Absalon Orchestra, but it fell out of the repertoire. I think that I was influenced by a critic who said, “Who wants to hear this tune again?”
Still, I cannot leave it to oblivion; I like to play it.
Whatever that guy thought and said in writing, I think that it’s simple and attractive. Sentimental? Yes.
When there are gray skies,
I don't mind the gray skies.
You make them blue, Sonny Boy.
Friends may forsake me.
Let them all forsake me.
You'll pull me through, Sonny Boy.
You're sent from Heaven
And I know your worth.
You've made a heaven
For me right here on earth!
But if the angels grow lonely
Take you 'cause they're lonely
I'll follow you, Sonny Boy.