Anniversary song

Anniversary Song is a popular sentimental standard written in 1946 by Al Jolson and Saul Chaplin. The melody is based on the Romanian waltz „Waves of the Danube“ („Danube Waves“) by Ion Ivanovici from 1880.

The song was originally featured in the movie The Jolson Story (1946) and became a big hit for Al Jolson. It is a nostalgic celebration of long-lasting love, asking the classic question: „How many times do I have to tell you I love you?“ on the occasion of an anniversary.

In Gypsy Jazz / Manouche repertoire:
„Anniversary Song“ is a well-known ballad in the gypsy jazz scene. It is often played as a slow to medium-tempo waltz or light swing. Many manouche musicians appreciate its beautiful, romantic melody and emotional character.

Musical character:
The song has a very lyrical and singable melody with a waltz-like feeling in its original form. In gypsy jazz it is frequently performed with a gentle swing rhythm. It offers excellent opportunities for expressive chord-melody playing and emotional solos.

Interesting facts:

• The melody is over 140 years old — originally a Romanian waltz that became extremely popular across Europe in the late 19th and early 20th century.
• Al Jolson’s recording helped make the song a major hit in the United States after World War II.
• In the manouche world it is often used as a romantic or emotional piece at concerts and weddings.
• It is a great tune for practicing beautiful phrasing and creating a romantic atmosphere with the guitar.

„Anniversary Song“ is a lovely, nostalgic standard that combines old European waltz tradition with American show-business sentiment — a combination that works particularly well in gypsy jazz.