Before the year closes, it seems fitting to mention Songs for Swingin’ Lovers!. It seems hard to believe, but this classic album, perhaps the cornerstone of Frank Sinatra’s long career, has now reached its Golden Anniversary with nary a whisper of the milestone anywhere.

Originally recorded in January of 1956, Songs For Swingin’ Lovers is, for many, Sinatra epitomized. It includes the monster hits I’ve Got You Under My Skin and You Make Me Feel So Young and 13 other songs arranged and performed in a manner that set the style and tone of popular singing for years to come. To me, this album is simply Sinatra in full bloom.

It was a huge seller in its day and continues to be a strong seller five decades after its initial release. So how could it be rare? Well, perhaps this isn’t a true rarity in the sense that it is valuable, but take a look at the cover. See how Sinatra is facing away from the couple? Now take a look at your CD (or LP). See the difference? The original release, which is what’s shown, had Sinatra facing away. Not long after, for reasons unknown, the cover was changed to the more familiar one you see now. (I think perhaps, a possible reason is that the original wasn’t a very good likeness, but that’s just my theory.)
No one knows how many of the early variety were pressed. In my experience it isn’t that hard to find but it is certainly the less common of the two and makes an interesting conversation piece. Copies in good condition can be had for about $20.

Happy Birthday Songs For Swingin’ Lovers!