The captivating song known as “Fly Me to the Moon” has a rich history that dates back to 1954, when it was originally written by Bart Howard under the title “In Other Words.” Its initial introduction to the public came through the intimate settings of the cabaret circuit, performed by Felicia Saunders. The song slowly began to gain commercial traction with Kaye Ballard recording the first commercial version two years later, setting the stage for future renditions.
In 1956, it was Johnny Mathis who popularized the song under its now-iconic title, “Fly Me to the Moon,” marking a crucial step in its ascent into the pantheon of classic music. However, it wasn’t until 1962 that this composition experienced a remarkable revival when composer Joe Harnell reimagined it with a captivating bossa nova arrangement. Harnell’s version soared in popularity, climbing to #14 on the US charts and winning a prestigious Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance, cementing the song’s place in musical history.
Adding to the song’s enduring legacy, Frank Sinatra recorded what many consider the definitive version in 1964. Collaborating with the Count Basie Orchestra and thanks to the masterful arrangement by Quincy Jones, Sinatra’s interpretation carried an unmatched charisma and sophistication, even though it never achieved commercial hit status. This rendition’s smoothness and timeless appeal continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
An astonishing chapter in the history of “Fly Me to the Moon” unfolded during the Apollo 10 lunar mission when a cassette containing a playlist befitting a journey to the Moon was played during the flight. Included among the tracks was Sinatra’s rendition of the song, alongside others like “Going Back to Houston” and “Moonlight Serenade.” This historic event made “Fly Me to the Moon” one of the first songs ever played in outer space, lending the song an ethereal connection to humanity’s giant leap beyond Earth.
“My father used to hum this tune when telling stories about the old days,” reminisces Olivia Jenkins, daughter of an Apollo 10 astronaut. “It’s magical to think that the very songs we cherish were out there, floating in space with the crew. It makes the song feel alive beyond words.”
Music historian Harold McKinley notes, “Fly Me to the Moon embodies the blend of romance, adventure, and hope. Its voyage from jazz clubs to the vastness of space mirrors the aspirations of an entire generation. Sinatra’s version, in particular, captures that spirit like no other.”
This timeless classic continues to inspire and evoke deep emotional responses, bridging generations and space itself with its enchanting melody and heartfelt lyrics.