This chart has been transcribed and adapted from Bette Midler's "Some People's Lives" album. This song has been recorded by many artists, many times and has been generally done as a slow, mournful ballad. Ms Midler's interpretation is anything but dreary. It has the feel of a two-beat chart that zips along at about 270 beats per minute (though we have scored it at 135 with a double-time feel) and features a rip-roaring Clarinet solo (as written or improvised) and punchy ensemble passages. The vocal is written for a three girl trio, but the lead vocal part takes the melody throughout, making the chart playable with just the one singer. This is not an easy chart as the tempo demands nimble fingers and good instrumental technique. A good piano player is also needed, as the first chorus is driven hard by the pianist's right hand playing a sort of wild west, bar room accompaniment. The Clarinet solo is written on the Alto 2 part and the vocal key is A.
Instrumentation: Vocal (Optional Vocal Trio), 2 Alto Saxophones (Alto Sax 2 Doubles Clarinet), 2 Tenor Saxophones, Baritone Saxophone, 4 Trumpets, 4 Trombones, Guitar, Piano, Bass, Drums.
