Doris Day—”No Moon At All” (1947)

"No Moon At All" is a jazz standard composed by Pennsylvanian pianist Dave Mann (1916-2002) and lyricist Redd Evans (1912-1972). It was initially waxed by Ohio-born songstress Doris Day (1922-2019).

Doris Day, accompanied by an orchestra under the direction of George Siravo: Red Solomon-trumpet; Buddy Morrow-trombone; Arthur Drelinger-clarinet; Toots Mondello-tenor saxophone; Bob Kitsis-piano; Tony Mottola-guitar; Bob Haggart-double bass; and Bunny Shawker-drums. Recorded at the Columbia studios, 30th street, New York, on November 26, 1947.

Mississippian Redd Evans loved to go to Colonia Beach, Virginia, visiting it 5 times a year. "My collaborator and friend, Dave Mann, 'broke in' the new organ at the little Methodist church there," Redd recalled, "because no one else could play it." One moonless night in 1947, Redd and Dave were walking around the town. No street lights were available in Colonial Beach yet and they got lost.

Eventually, both men ended up in well-lit St. Mary's church, sat down at the organ and wrote "No Moon At All." Evans added that they composed two other hits there. In 1953, Evans -- who played clarinet and saxophone in his own band -- appeared on national television on the night of the lunar eclipse as a promotional stunt for the revival of "No Moon At All."