The Great American Songbook: Celebrating 100 Years of Music in America

by Various Artists

From the moment that Al Jolson sang in his first talkie a tradition was born that lasted through the musical films of the 1950s. These films were blessed with beautiful, clever, catchy songs that would define a golden era in American songwriting. This documentary studies the classic songs and composers from this era featuring clips from a variety of memorable musicals. Michael Feinstein hosts and composers such as Cole Porter, Sammy Cahn, Richard Rodgers, Lorenz Hart, and George and Ira Gershwin are featured. Clips include the vocal talents of Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, Doris Day, and Lena Horne.