I played a couple of Hoagy Carmichael songs on the piano last night and thought I'd post an article about him. "Old timers" will remember him.

Hoagy (1899-1981) was born and educated (IU) in Bloomington, IN. He actually had a law degree. But music was his passion.

One of his earliest and most famous compositions was "Stardust". His songs seemed to fit his personality--sort of philosophical.

He wrote (not in any order): Georgia on My Mind, Skylark, Up a Lazy River, Old Buttermilk Sky, Lazy Bones, Two Sleepy People, The Nearness of You, Small Fry, Heart and Soul (the piano "duet" so many young people play), and many, many more.

He went to Hollywood to write for and act in movies--and later television. But his roots were in Indiana.

On a personal note, Hoagy was an influence on my father, an IU student from 1936-40. Dad was a jazz pianist, also. He worked his way through college playing piano with big bands and small combos. (My mother sang with these groups.) Hoagy became famous--my father not so much!

When Hoagy got married and had a boy (1940?) they named Randy, my parents thought that was a grand name. Hence, Randy is my name (actually, Randall, but thank goodness, not "Hoagland")!

"Google" Carmichael for much more information on the life and songs of one of my favorite composers. And have a great day!