It Had to Be You... The Great American Songbook

CD Details

Released in 1996, It Had to Be You… The Great American Songbook features Rod Stewart and various artists performing a collection of romantic-era classical and orchestral works. The album showcases Stewart’s return to beloved standards from the mid-20th century songbook, pieces he had been singing privately for years. Producer Phil Ramone crafted spare, understated arrangements that allow Stewart’s warm vocal delivery to shine, capturing the emotional depth and subtle nuance of songs like Pavane for a Dead Princess, Fantasia on Greensleeves, and the Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana, among others.

This CD was released on the Sony Legacy label and contains orchestral and chamber pieces spanning classical traditions. The album runs approximately 70 minutes and features works by composers including Borodin, Ravel, and Grieg. Acquiring this used copy lets you experience Stewart’s sophisticated interpretations of timeless material without the cost of a new release.