Adult standards

Adult Standards, also known as the American Songbook, the Great American Songbook, or simply Standards, is a music genre beloved for its rich collection of mid-20th-century American popular music. Comprising mostly of ballads and dance numbers from Broadway theatre, musical theatre, and Hollywood musical films, these songs became entrenched in the musical identity of the United States and, to a significant extent, the wider Western musical culture.

The genesis of Adult Standards can be traced back to the 1920s through the 1960s, a period often seen as the golden age of this genre. It was an era marked by an outpouring of American musical creativity, particularly well-captured in the works of composers like George Gershwin, Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, and Richard Rodgers. These artists crafted songs that had broad appeal, characterized by sophisticated lyrics, intricate melodies, and an emotional depth that resonated with mainstream audiences.

Adult Standards became synonymous with the voice of iconic crooners and songstresses such as Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, and Billie Holiday. Sinatra, in particular, exemplified the adult standards vocalist with his smooth, resonant voice that effortlessly interpreted the emotional depth of these compositions. His interpretations seemed to unveil the soul of the American ethos, dramatically influencing popular culture.

The genre enjoys popularity predominantly in the United States and Europe, propelled in part by periodic revivals through media, film soundtracks, and cover versions by contemporary artists. This continuity has helped maintain a fervent base of enthusiasts and a substantial presence on radio stations dedicated to the genre.

Radio formats dedicated to Adult Standards typically feature a mix of these timeless tracks interspersed with contemporaneous vocal recordings and softer tracks by bands from adjacent genres, such as soft rock and folk. The audience for these stations often consists of older adults who grew up with these songs, alongside younger listeners who discover the genre through familial connections or a general affinity for vintage musical styles.

In recent years, the genre has seen a resurgence as artists like Michael Bublé, Diana Krall, and Harry Connick Jr. have embraced the traditional pop standards while also contributing their fresh perspectives and modern flair. This "new guard" respects the foundational elements of the genre while also ensuring its relevance to the contemporary music scene.

Internationally, Adult Standards hold a special allure as well, evoking a nostalgia for the American golden age of music, with Japan and the UK being notable markets with a sustained interest. The timeless quality of these songs, along with their association with the nostalgia of early to mid-20th century Americana, allows them to transcend generational and cultural boundaries, providing a soothing connection to the past for listeners worldwide.

Adult Standards remain relevant not only as a testament to the artistic heights of American music but also as a bridge across generations, continually bringing new audiences into its fold through its inherent elegance and emotional depth. For music enthusiasts, the genre offers not only aural pleasure but also a vibrant portal to America's rich musical heritage.