Written by in 1940 (with lyrics by Bob Russell added in 1942), "Don’t Get Around Much Anymore" was originally a swing-era staple. Bassey's 1978 recording transformed the piece from a jazz instrumental into a vocal showcase:
In 1978, Dame Shirley Bassey —already an international icon known for her powerhouse vocals—brought her distinctive flair to the jazz standard "." This recording was a standout track on her album Yesterdays , released through United Artists Records. Context and Production Written by in 1940 (with lyrics by Bob
Though it was originally released on the Yesterdays LP, this specific 1978 recording has since appeared on various career-spanning collections, including the 1996 three-CD compilation Four Decades of Song . Typical of her recordings from this period, the
Typical of her recordings from this period, the track features brassy, orchestral backdrops that complement her dynamic performance style. Legacy and Availability Musical Style Often classified as a mezzo-soprano or
The track was recorded as part of the Yesterdays project, which saw Bassey interpreting a collection of beloved classics. While much of her 1970s work, such as the 1979 album The Magic Is You , was produced by with a contemporary MOR (middle-of-the-road) feel, her 1978 recordings often balanced grand orchestral arrangements with her signature "belting" style. Musical Style
Often classified as a mezzo-soprano or contralto, Bassey utilized her rich, resonant low notes and impressive high-register power to breathe new life into the lyrics.
The 1978 version of the song reflects Bassey's continued dominance in the UK music scene during the late 1970s. This era was particularly prolific for her; she charted 18 hit albums in the UK between 1970 and 1979.