How to Make Weeding Your Garden More Fun

Photo by Ben Collins on Unsplash

The perfect playlist for your outdoor summer chores!

No one really enjoys weeding, but, unfortunately, it’s necessary for a garden to flourish. Each little green flower bud needs space to breathe around it, and plenty of nutritious soil to grow. So, you might as well grab your trowel, gloves, sunhat, and a nice speaker and get started. And don’t worry, of course you know that Night is Alive has got you covered with a playlist to make weeding your garden more fun!

Harry Allen Trio – I Can’t Get Started

Like with any challenging or tedious task, it may be difficult to get started. You might just feel like you can’t get started no matter how hard you try to stop scrolling on your phone or sipping from your water bottle. But the more time you tarry away, the longer it’ll take you to finish! So, go ahead and ease into your weeding with this soft song from Night is Alive’s newest album It Takes 3. I think the interplay of the piano and saxophone will be sure to motivate and encourage you.

Lorca Hart Trio – Like This

Weeding sure is a lot more fun when you have an upbeat jazzy tune like this one from Night is Alive’s album Inspiration and Gratitude. Just like this you will be pulling out all of those pesky dandelions, creeping Charlie and knotweed in no time! Let the fast beat guide your movements and it’ll feel less like a chore and more like a synchronised dance.

The Lorca Hart Trio – Blues Alliance

From one of our older beloved albums Colors of Jazz, this playful and fun tune will help to make the time spent outside weeding feel like a real treat. Try to enjoy the dappling sunshine on the green leaves, the smell of the fresh overturned dirt, and the cute little critters–ants, worms, caterpillars–crawling about. We’re all in this together–in this Blues Alliance!

WJ3 All-Stars – I Should Care

After that weeding frenzy you may be beginning to feel a little tired! You may start to wonder if this is even all worth it . . . should I even care about this garden? The weeding is so much work! But let this song, from Night is Alive’s album My Ship remind you that yes, yes you should share! Let the blooming of the trumpet in this song help you to visualize all the daffodils, crocuses and snowdrops that will be emerging soon enough.

WJ3 All Stars – I’m an Old Cow Hand

After all that work in the garden, I bet you’re starting to feel like an old cow hand working hard out in the sun all day! Why not celebrate your hard work with this snazzy tune from Night is Alive’s album Lovers & Love Songs. Then go and grab yourself a nice ice cold glass of sweet tea and sit back and relax. You earned it!

Check out this music and more on Night is Alive’s albums page!

written by Jacqueline Knirnschild

Photo by Ben Collins on Unsplash

Songs for Calm Outdoor Yoga

Photo by kike vega on Unsplash

Celebrate International Yoga Day on June 21st

With muggy, humid weather like this, you can have a hot yoga class in your backyard! Just step outside with your yoga mat and I guarantee the temperatures and sweat will be as high as you’d be paying for in an infrared studio! It’ll also be nice to stretch out your body, breathe into your muscles and hear the birds chirping outside. Plus, did you know that June 21st is International Yoga Day? What better way to celebrate than with some calm outdoor yoga and smooth jazz tunes! We at Night is Alive have got you covered with a playlist that’ll help you unwind and unfold.

Lorca Hart Trio – Let Me in Your Life

I think yoga is best when it is done with a specific intention in mind. Whether it be to let go of the past, be in the present moment or allow yourself to make mistakes, it’s important to set a goal to work towards in your yoga practice, which is why I thought it’d be great to start our playlist with a song from Lorca Hart Trio’s album Inspiration and Gratitude. Maybe your intention could be to be grateful for all that you have, or to let some love into your life?

Harry Allen Trio – Each and Every Yesterday

This beautiful slow tune from Night is Alive’s newest album It Takes 3 really showcases the buttery brilliance of Harry Allen’s saxophone. Allow the mellow melody to smooth out all the kinks in your back and neck as you warm up and stretch out, maybe with some table-top positions and cat/cow. Let all the stress of each and every yesterday roll off your body like every music note rolls so effortlessly from the instruments.

Bill Cunliffe, Tim Horner & Martin Wind – Border Widow’s Lament

I think Wind’s bass really stands out in this track from the album of the same title, released by Night is Alive. And Cunliffe’s masterful piano is also incredibly peaceful, while Horner’s drums pull everything all together. A song like this makes me want to get into a child’s pose and allow the laments of the day to slip away, like the drops of sweat, onto my mat.

John Di Martino & Others – Only the Lonely

This song, from Night is Alive’s album Call Me Irresponsible, is hauntingly beautiful and I guarantee it will stick with you long after it’s over, much like your yoga practice. Maybe it feels a bit lonely to be outside practicing yoga by yourself, but you’re not alone–you have the music to keep you company. You have the arresting vocals, the piano, guitar, bass, drums to guide you as you unwind your body further and push it to the threshold where growth occurs.

The Lorca Hart Trio – Duke and Billy

As you finish up your half-pigeon pose and do your final pose, maybe it’s a wheel or full bridge, or even a shoulder stand, this snazzy tune will only serve to enhance your relaxation. Then, when you get into that final resting pose, flat on your back on the mat, allow the Colors of Jazz (the name of this album) to wash over you and spark your synapses with joy and accomplishment. You did it. You took this time for yourself today and your body greatly appreciates it.

Check out this music and more on Night is Alive’s albums page!

written by Jacqueline Knirnschild

Photo by kike vega on Unsplash

Songs for a Summer Solstice Picnic

Photo by Liana S on Unsplash

Did you know that right around the time of the Summer Solstice is when the sun is out for the longest? Yup, right now you are going to be experiencing the most daylight of the year! As nature comes alive–the crickets chirp, the bees buzz and the wind rustles–why not grab a basket and fill it with your favorite snacks and have an evening picnic? Just be sure not to forget the bugspray! And of course, a lovely sunset playlist.

Harry Allen Trio – It’s Sunny in Cape Cod

I don’t know about you, but I just love these long evenings. I feel so much more awake when the sun is still out at 8, 9 p.m. This song, from Night is Alive’s newest album It Takes 3, not only captures what it feels like when “It’s Sunny in Cape Cod,” but it also captures what it feels like when it’s sunny during the solstice! Sit back, relax and enjoy the soothing piano notes, each one like a ray of sunshine.

Lorca Hart Trio – Dew Drop

Even though there are lots of mosquitos right after it rains, I still think there is something just so serene about dewy, fresh, post-storm evenings. The earth and greenery feels like it was freshly cleansed and refreshed. Everything has such a rejuvenating gleam to it, just like this lovely song from Night is Alive’s album Colors of Jazz. The saxophone is like a perfect dew drop on a leaf, glistening and serene.

Janis Siegel, John Di Martino & Others – Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue

This is one of my favorite tunes to sing along to–it’s just so catchy, clever and croony. Maybe as you’re sitting at your picnic, you’ll also feel inspired to sing along! From Night is Alive’s country jazz album Cryin’ In My Whiskey, this tune encapsulates the melancholy feeling of a tortured relationship yet still manages to feel light and singable. Plus, there’s nothing like country music when you’re sitting outside on a nice summer evening, right?

Bill Cunliffe, Martin Wind & Tim Horner – Marching Season

As the skies begin to finally darken a little bit, you may want to listen to a song that has a bit more of a haunting feel to it, like this one from Night is Alive’s album Border Widow’s Lament. This dynamic tune makes me think of all the ants marching up tree trunks and branches, the raccoons and squirrels stirring in the woods, the owl blinking its eyes; all the life that is teeming in the unknown darkness beyond human eyes.

WJ3 All-Stars – Star Eyes

Maybe a few stars are beginning to twinkle in the sky? Maybe the moon is peeking out from behind a cloud? Well, it really was a lovely Summer Solstice picnic, and what better way to end it than with this lovely song from Night is Alive’s album My Ship. Maybe you’re sitting with a loved one and the stars are reflecting in their eyes, or maybe this person makes you starry-eyed!

Check out this music and more on Night is Alive’s albums page!

written by Jacqueline Knirnschild

Photo by Liana S on Unsplash

Music for a Farmers Market

Photo by mk. s on Unsplash

Farmers Markets & Fun Jazz

Now that spring is here, and summer is right around the corner, I bet you’re thrilled about all the farmers markets and food festivals popping up in your community! I know that I sure am. There’s no better way to spend a Saturday morning than to grab your family and walk or bike to the local farmers market. I just love soaking up the wicker baskets and wooden crates full of fresh fruits and veggies, and hand-picked flowers. There are always so many tents to explore – homemade blackberry jams, shiny red cherry tomatoes, local clover honey, and goats milk soap. It’s all so wonderful!

Or maybe you’re responsible for one of those tents – maybe you’re a farmer, or a farmhand tasked to sell your goods at the local market. I bet you also love those brisk Saturday mornings loading up the truck with all your fresh produce and salted smoked meats. And then I bet it must be so much fun to greet the customers, chit-chat with the regulars and slowly get to know everyone in your community! But have you ever thought about bringing a speaker to your tent and playing some fun jazz tunes to enhance the mood? I’m sure your customers would love it, and research suggests that music can even make people more likely to buy something!

Louis Armstrong – What A Wonderful World

After extolling the many wonderful colors and textures of the farmers market, I couldn’t help but to kick off our playlist with this beloved classic, first released in 1967. Even though I’ve heard this song countless times, it never fails to move me and make me feel a deep sense of gratitude. The colors of the rainbow / so pretty in the sky / Are also on the faces / Of people going by / I see friends shaking hands, saying “How do you do?” / They’re really saying, “I love you.”

Harry Allen Trio – You’re My Everything

In this new rendition of the 1931 jazz standard, you can really hear the synergy among the three musicians: Harry Allen’s smooth tenor saxophone intertwining with Rossano Sportiello’s swinging piano, both of which build upon the strong foundation of Bryan Carter’s dynamic drumming. This beautiful collaboration from Night is Alive’s newest album, It Takes 3, captures the interconnectedness of the farmers market. Like the musicians, everyone at the market is working together to foster an atmosphere of love, health and community.

Janis Siegel, John Di Martino, Aaron Heick, Harry Allen & others – Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue

Don’t you agree that a warm sunny day at the farmers market absolutely would not be complete without at least one country tune? Well lucky for you, Night is Alive has an excellent country jazz album, Cryin’ in My Whiskey! This rendition of Crystal Gayle’s lovely song captures the melancholy of an unrequited love, yet still manages to feel upbeat and light. You never know, maybe after losing a love, you might just bump into someone new, perhaps at your local farmers’ market? 

John DiMartino, Joe Magnarelli, Wayne Escoffery, Lonnie Plaxico & Willie Jones III – Tune for Mr T

Maybe by this point you’ve finished purchasing the essential ingredients and you’re perusing the jewellery and arts tents, and want a funkier tune to accompany your shopping! This groovy little song, from Night is Alive’s album Old New Borrowed and Blue will match the energy of the local artisans and might even convince you to finally buy that oil painting you’ve been eyeing for weeks. It’s going to look so good in that spot right above the mantel – you know just what I’m talking about!

The WJ3 All-Stars – Gee Baby Ain’t I Good To You

Well, all good things must come to an end, including the farmers’ market. But before you leave, make sure to listen to this lovely tune from Night is Alive’s album Lovers and Love Songs, and don’t forget to treat yourself to a sweet baked good from the tent near the exit! I’ve heard that their lavender banana bread is to die for, or you can’t go wrong with the classic blueberry muffin! Gee baby, ain’t the farmer’s market good to us? 

Check out some of this music and more on Night is Alive’s albums page!

written by Jacqueline Knirnschild

Photo by mk. s on Unsplash

Songs to Make a Great Game Night

Photo by Samantha Gades on Unsplash

I’m not sure about you, but where I live it has been pretty rainy and gray lately, which is the perfect weather for a game night inside! Instead of letting the next rainy night get you down, why don’t you call up your friends, grab some chips and salsa, maybe a few beers and cozy in for a night of cards and board games? My favorite games are Bananagrams, Taboo and Monopoly. What are your favorites? Oh, and don’t forget–you’re going to be needing some music! Here are some tunes, hand selected by Night is Alive, to brighten your next game night:

Harry Allen Trio – Seems To Me I’ve Heard That Song Before

This snazzy tune, from Night is Alive’s newest album It Takes 3 is sure to set the right tone for the evening. Just picture it now: your friends are arriving, shaking off their umbrellas on the front porch, shrugging off their raincoats and Harry Allen is welcoming them in with his jazzy saxophone! Then maybe you pour each guest a glass of chardonnay and show them the array of games displayed on your kitchen table. Boggle, pinochle, charades–who knows where the night will take you!?

Lorca Hart Trio – Blues on the Corner

Despite the name of this song, which comes from Night is Alive’s album Inspiration and Gratitude, it is actually not very bluesy and is more upbeat and jivey, which pairs well with the adrenaline and jitters of a competitive game night! Are you the type of person to talk smack around the table? Gloat if you win? Are you a sore loser? I’ve heard stories of people throwing game boards across the table at each other! But I’m sure you and your friends would never do that, right?

John Di Martino – Call Me Irresponsible

As alluded to with the previous song, sometimes game nights can really bring out the inner child inside us all, which is okay! Let’s embrace our inner child and have some fun tonight–maybe, dare I say it, even be a little bit irresponsible? This song, from Night is Alive’s album of the same name, encourages a little bit of recklessness. Call me unpredictable / Tell me I’m impractical / Rainbows I’m inclined to pursue . . .

Lorca Hart Trio – MoJoe

By this point in the night you’re probably starting to feel pretty good–hopefully you’ve won a few games, or if you’re playing a longer game, like Settlers of Catan, maybe you’re neck and neck with someone to win! Like this exciting tune from one of Night is Alive’s beloved older albums, Colors of Jazz, you might be getting your mojo on! Make sure to shake up those dice good and even give them a blow for good luck!

WJ3 All-Stars – I’m an Old Cow Hand

This fun jazz song, from Night is Alive’s sweet and soulful album Lovers and Love Songs, ends your game night on a nice playful note. No matter the outcome of your game night–whether you won a prize or lost big–make sure to smile, laugh it off and give your friends a hearty handshake or big hug! No matter how competitive, no game night is worth getting upset about. Plus, there’s always next time…

Check out some of this music and more on Night is Alive’s albums page!

written by Jacqueline Knirnschild

Photo by Samantha Gades on Unsplash

Get Groovy on Your Bike Ride

Photo by Clark Young on Unsplash

Our favorite tunes for a Springtime bike ride.

Even though the sun is shining, the temperatures have still been mostly in the 50s and 60s,
which makes it a bit too cool for summer activities, like sunbathing and swimming. But you
know what the current weather is perfect for? A long bike ride! Whether you like to mountain
bike, or prefer a more leisurely city ride, right now is a great time to grab your helmet and set
out for some scenery and blue skies. Don’t forget your water bottle, and more importantly,
don’t forget to enjoy these groovy bike-riding tunes.


Lorca Hart Trio – Discoveries
Who knows what you’ll discover on your bike ride–a bird’s nest full of eggs, a snake
slithering by on the pavement or an old friend sitting on a park bench! The opportunities are
endless as long as you keep your mind and heart open to curiosity and discovery, which is
encapsulated in this song from Lorca Hart Trio’s album Colors of Jazz!

Janis Siegel & John di Martino – Whenever You Come Around
I don’t know about you, but the warmer weather has got me feeling like it’s time to start
listening to some country music! And what better way to kick off the country music season
than with a beloved tune like “Whenever You Come Around.” This new rendition from the
album Cryin’ in My Whiskey captures the country classic while also adding layers of depth
with the jazzy overtones, making it a lovely companion on your bike ride.

Lorca Hart Trio – Blues on the Corner
About halfway through your bike ride you might start losing steam, which is a great time t
listen to this jazzy song! Like I mentioned earlier, you never really know what you’re going
to find right around the corner of your bike ride, or your life. You could find something blue,
or maybe an unexpected ray of sunshine! Who knows–just keep pedaling, just keep moving
forward and you’ll end up right where you need to be. And this song, from our album
Inspiration & Gratitude, will help you remind you of this important message.

John Di Martino, Harry Allen, Dave Stryker, Peter Washington & Willie Jones – Suddenly
It’s Spring
Spring always seems to come out of nowhere to me, which may be why it’s called spring–it
just jumps out and catches you by surprise every year! You can really start to get used to the
gray skies, rain and cold that the spring almost feels like a fright, but no fear–the time is here
to let the air be a bit looser, and to let your hair fall more freely, especially as you coast past
all the lovely spring flowers. Let the April showers be where they belong, in the past, and
celebrate the new green growth while you listen to this lovely tune from our album Call Me
Irresponsible.

Willie Jones III – My Ship
End your bike ride with this slower song, featuring some gorgeous trumpet-playing from our
very own Jeremy Pelt! The titular song of our album My Ship, this tune is perfect for ending a
journey, for arriving at your destination. I can wait the years / ‘Til it appears / One fine day,
one spring.

Check out some of this music and more on Night is Alive’s albums page!

written by Jacqueline Knirnschild

Photo by Clark Young on Unsplash

5 Songs to Make Mom Smile

Night is Alive’s favorite songs for Mother’s Day

Who’s always there for you when you have no one else? Who can you always count on? Who has lifted you up when you’re down? Who will celebrate the joys of life with you while also giving you a shoulder to cry on? I think we all know the answer…

I’m sure your mom has made you smile countless times, and now it’s time to repay the favor and make her smile! To help create the perfect ambience, we at Night is Alive recommend that you turn on these tunes this Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 11, 2025).

Harry Allen Trio – Exactly Like You

Has anyone ever told you that you look exactly like your mom? When I was a kid this remark usually embarrassed me, but now I see the value in it–my mom is a beautiful, wonderful woman and I am proud to look exactly like her! What traits do you and your mom have in common? I’m sure there are plenty, and moms usually like to be reminded of how much you resemble one another, so this year let mom know that you are grateful to be the apple of her eye. While you’re at it, share this new song from the Harry Allen Trio with her!

Lorca Hart Trio – A Time For Love

From the Lorca Hart Trio’s new album Inspiration and Gratitude, this slow, sweet tune captures what it feels like to celebrate love. Not only that, but the album as a whole embodies inspiration and gratitude. How has your mom inspired you and been a role model to you? In your Mother’s Day card this year, let mom know that you learned some valuable lessons from and are grateful for her! And while you are gifting her this card, imagine this new jazz tune playing in the background–the vocals are sure to make her smile.

Gregory Porter – Mother’s Song

Two-time Grammy-award-winning American jazz musician, Gregory Porter, really expresses what it’s like to have a powerful matriarch in the family who lifts everyone up around her with love. Listen and gather ’round me children / Children of a mother whose life lifted up peace / A mother who taught all of her children / To love and be loved by each other.

John Di Martino – Imagination

I don’t know about you, but my mother really fostered and cultivated my imagination when I was a child. She filled our days with not only love, but games and stories that encouraged my imagination to grow beyond what I thought was capable. From reading fairy tales, visiting museums and playing dress-up, my mother helped me to see the mystical worlds available in our imaginations, which I think is encapsulated beautifully in this song from John Di Martino.

King Cole Trio – My Mother Told Me

Isn’t it true that our mothers always have the best advice? Maybe we don’t always want to listen to them in the moment, but they usually turn out to be right, don’t they? It can be a little frustrating how right they always are, but that just goes to show we should listen to them more!

written by Jacqueline Knirnschild

Photo by Ijaz Rafi on Unsplash

Happy Mother’s Day! – 5 Jazz Songs to Warm Mom’s Heart

Are you feeling bombarded and overwhelmed by all of the advertisements for Mother’s Day gifts and flowers? Do you still not have a gift idea for mom? Maybe you weren’t able to visit with mom last year, due to concerns about COVID-19, and you want to make sure Mother’s Day 2021 is extra special. 

Well, don’t worry because sometimes it’s the simplest gifts that leave the longest lasting memories. Sometimes it’s about creating that perfect ambience by playing just the right songs. The songs that’ll speak to mom’s heart, get her eyes watering and her toes tapping.

Etta James – Tell Mama

This 1967 hit song still rocks out today! Etta James’s deep, powerful and gutsy vocals let you know that mama really is always on your side and always has your back, no matter what. This song is sure to get your Mother’s Day off to a groovy start! 

WJ3 All Stars – I’ve Never Been in Love Before

The jazz standard from 1950—recorded by stars like Bing Crosby, Doris Day and Chet Baker—has been brought back to life in this vivid rendition from Willie Jones III and his All-Stars! Whether this is the first time your mom is hearing this song, or if it’s a tune she knows and loves, the soft melody, saxophone and piano are sure to create a lovely atmosphere for chatting and reminiscing.

The Shirelles – Mama Said

This lively, poppy 1961 hit is a fun ode to all the moms out there who have given their children those unforgettable words of wisdom. And did you know that The Shirelles, famous for their rhythm & blues, doo-wop and soul music, are credited with the launch of the girl group genre? All I know is that I don’t worry ‘cause Mama said there’ll be days like this…

Gregory Porter – Mother’s Song

You probably recognize Gregory Porter from his albums, Liquid Spirit and Tame to the Alley, both of which won Grammys for Best Jazz Vocal Album, but I bet you haven’t heard this song from his 2012 album! Porter’s mellow and uplifting sound will make your mother feel cherished on her special day. Listen and gather ‘round me children, children of a mother whose life lifted up peace, a mother who taught all of her children to love and be loved by each other…

Lorca Hart Trio – Bye Ya

If your mom is anything like my mom, saying goodbye is an ordeal, an event, a process in which one gets initiated into another conversation, and gets just one more hug, before finally walking out the door. So, this Mother’s Day, say goodbye with a bang! “Bye Ya” comes from Lorca Hart Trio’s newest album Colors of Jazz. The swinging, upbeat tune represents the color orange and evokes the image of a jolly band leading a parade down a cobblestone street. Everyone is dancing merrily and marching happily to the beat of the drum solo. A cheering crowd lines the street, pressing together to watch the musicians pass, waving and laughing. Giggling children chase each other through the sea of legs. Now, that, to me, really sounds like the proper way to say goodbye to mom!

And if your mom is a lover of jazz music, you may want to browse around our store for some great gift ideas! “Colors of Jazz” and WJ3 All-Star’s album “Lover and Love Songs” are both available in our store right now, along with many other albums that’ll bring a bright smile to mom’s face. Or if you would like to book one of our lovely musicians for your Mother’s Day, please contact us today. 

This post was written by Blog Editor, Jacqueline Knirnschild.

Life is a Picnic! – Relaxing Tunes to Listen to on National Picnic Day

With the unpredictability of the weather nowadays, we have to seize any opportunity we can to go outside and have a picnic. So, in honor of National Picnic Day on April 23rd, go grab your friends and family this weekend, tell everyone to bring a dish to share, sit outside and bask in the sun while listening to these upbeat tunes! That is, as long as there’s not a random surprise blizzard… Let’s cross our fingers that doesn’t happen, and spring is here to stay!

Billie Jo Spears – Blanket On The Ground

Whether it be a handmaid quilt or the classic red and white checkers, nothing says picnic like a blanket on the ground. In reality though, this 1975 country hit is actually about a more adult type of picnic… it’s sung from the perspective of a middle-aged woman who convinces her hesitant husband to make love outdoors in the moonlight.

Bob Dylan – Forever Young

When I think about picnics, I also think about family reunions, conversations and laughs over paper plates of macaroni salad. So, what better way to enjoy a picnic than with this lovely song written in 1974 as a lullaby for Bob Dylan’s eldest son. “Forever Young” conveys the wishes and hopes that parents have for their children: May you build a ladder to the stars and climb on every rung. 

The 5th Dimension – Stoned Soul Picnic

Tell you friends to hurry to the picnic because, as the 5th Dimension sings, There’ll be lots of time and wine, Red yellow honey, sassafras and moonshine. Gosh, that sure sounds like the type of picnic I’m looking for! Written by Laura Nyro and released by The 5th Dimension in 1968, this tune has a unique sound—a mixture of pop, R&B, soul, jazz, light opera and Broadway that’s referred to as “champagne soul.” 

Paul Simon – Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard

This 1972 folk rock song is a playful and lighthearted tunne about two boys who have broken a law at the schoolyard. When “mama pajama” finds out, she goes to the police station to report the crime. This song makes me think of all the horsing around and tomfoolery that kids can get up to at a picnic when their parents aren’t looking. And the percussion in is very unique for American pop music since it was created with a Brazilian friction drum called a cuica, which is often used in samba music.  

Janis Siegel, John Di Martino & Lonnie Plaxico – Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue

The original song, a lament on a lost love released by Crystal Gayle in 1977 probably wouldn’t typically be thought of as an upbeat, outdoorsy picnic song, but this new rendition from Janis Siegel, John Di Martino and Lonnie Plaxico is anything but blue! These world-class musicians de-ranged the song a bit in their version, making it faster paced, and they also end the tune with a huge party that features Aaron Heick on clarinet. You won’t want to miss this wildly exciting and jazzy spin on the old country hit!

If you’re looking for more snazzy country tunes to play during a picnic, you might want to check out Night Is Alive’s newest album, “Cryin’ In My Whiskey,” which features the vocals of Grammy-award-winner Janis Siegel, the piano of John Di Martino and the saxophone of Lonnie Plaxico! “Cryin’ In My Whiskey” is available in our store right now. Or if you’d like to book one of our lovely musicians for your picnic, please contact us today.

This post was written by Blog Editor, Jacqueline Knirnschild.

April Showers Bring May Flowers – 5 Rainy Day Songs

Just because it’s raining outside doesn’t mean that your mood has to be dreary and dark. Remember, April showers bring May flowers! Sometimes, a tough, gloomy period is watering the very seeds that’ll sprout and grow into something beautiful and joyous in the future, so go get yourself a nice warm cup of tea, snuggle up and listen to these lovely tunes on your rainy April day! 

Elvis – Pocketful of Rainbows

We all know and love the King of Rock and Roll, but have you ever listened to his lesser-known gem of a song, “Pocketful of Rainbows”? Released in 1960, this slower-paced tune is perfect for a rainy day inside. Like Elvis sings so beautifully, we need not worry whenever skies are gray above because we have a pocketful of rainbows and a heart full of love.

Otis Redding – Cigarettes and Coffee

From his 1966 “The Soul Album,” this song is a poignant meditation from the perspective of a man lingering in the early morning, sittin’ here talkin’ with my baby. The protagonist is in absolutely no rush to get started with his day. He sings to his darling about how grateful he is that she’s in his life, and how grateful he is for this simple moment together: I’ve known nothing but good old joy since I met you… I would love to have another drink of coffee, now, and please, darling, help me smoke this one more cigarette. 

Lorca Hart Trio – Dew Drop

As the Lorca Hart Trio proves in this wonderful jazz song, released in 2020, a drop of dew can be oh so delicate, beautiful and precious. Slow down and notice the dew drops outside all around you, on flowers, leaves, branches. A dew drop is in no hurry to go anywhere, it just exists in that very moment, which is exactly what you can do on this drizzly day. 

Etta James – A Sunday Kind of Love

I don’t know about you, but this song is a staple on my rainy Sunday morning playlist. Etta James’s powerful voice and the clever lyrics in this 1960 tune just soften and warm my heart into butter. But did you know that Etta James was not the first artist to release this song? It was actually composed by Barbara Belle, Anita Leonard, Stan Rhodes and Louis Prima and published in 1946. Many musicians like Fran Warren, Ella Fitzgerald and The Del Vikings came out with versions of this beloved song.

WJ3 All Stars – First Time I Saw Your Face

This slow, smooth song from WJ3 All Stars’ newest album, “Lovers & Love Songs” will have you reminiscing on the very first time that you ever met your darling—the twinkling in his or her eyes, the dimples on the cheeks and the smile that stole your heart forever. This song is perfect for cuddling up next to your loved one and savoring all those sweet memories you have together. 

If you’re looking for more soft jazz songs to keep you nice and cozy during all the rainy days this April, I would recommend the WJ3 All Stars’ album “Lovers & Love Songs” and the Lorca Hart Trio’s “Colors of Jazz.” Both are available in our store right now and on all major music platforms!

This post was written by Blog Editor, Jacqueline Knirnschild.