George Gershwin, a towering figure of American music, was indeed contacted by Fox Film Corporation to write the music for a film. That film was “Delicious,” released in 1931, a romantic comedy starring Janet Gaynor and Charles Farrell.
The Genesis of “Delicious” and the Gershwin Commission
The early days of sound film presented unprecedented opportunities for musical integration. Before “Delicious,” musical scores in films were often borrowed, adapted, or compiled. Fox, keen to capitalize on the emerging “talkie” trend and the potential for original musical content, sought out Gershwin to bring his distinct voice to the silver screen. The studio envisioned a film that wasn’t just a story with music, but a story told through music, woven seamlessly into the narrative.
The commission was a significant one. Gershwin, already a Broadway luminary, saw in film a wider audience and new artistic avenues. He was reportedly offered a substantial sum to compose the score, including the now-famous “Rhapsody in Rivets,” originally conceived as the main title theme and intended to evoke the energy and dynamism of New York City’s burgeoning skyline. Though Gershwin ultimately contributed only a portion of the final score, the film remains historically significant as his first, and almost only, foray into Hollywood composing.
The Collaborative Process: Challenges and Compromises
The collaboration between Gershwin and Fox wasn’t without its challenges. The studio system, with its rigid schedules and sometimes conflicting creative visions, presented a stark contrast to Gershwin’s Broadway experience. Working with director David Butler and composer Oscar Levant, who filled in on additional music and arrangements, required a degree of compromise that Gershwin found frustrating. He was accustomed to complete control over his musical output, a luxury Hollywood rarely afforded.
Ultimately, Gershwin contributed several key pieces to “Delicious,” most notably “Rhapsody in Rivets,” and the song “Blah, Blah, Blah,” a whimsical piece of nonsense that quickly became a popular tune. However, the extent of his initial vision for a fully integrated musical score never fully materialized due to time constraints and studio preferences.
The Musical Legacy of “Delicious”
While “Delicious” might not be remembered as a cinematic masterpiece, its musical contributions, especially those of Gershwin, have endured. “Rhapsody in Rivets” has been reimagined and performed as a concert piece, showcasing its compositional brilliance independent of the film. “Blah, Blah, Blah” became a jazz standard, covered by numerous artists over the decades. The film itself provides a valuable snapshot of early sound film technology and the integration of popular music into a mainstream medium. It also represents a fascinating “what if” scenario: what could Gershwin have achieved had he fully embraced Hollywood?
A Foray into Hollywood, and a Return to Broadway
The “Delicious” experience, though ultimately a mixed one, didn’t sour Gershwin on the potential of film entirely. Later in his career, he and his brother Ira did move to Hollywood, contributing to films like “Shall We Dance” (1937). However, the structured and often limiting nature of the studio system never quite aligned with Gershwin’s artistic temperament. He remained primarily a Broadway composer, finding greater creative freedom in the theater. “Delicious” serves as a reminder of his brief but influential engagement with Hollywood’s nascent musical landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Gershwin and “Delicious”
Here are some frequently asked questions to further explore George Gershwin’s involvement with the film “Delicious”:
FAQ 1: What exactly is “Rhapsody in Rivets”?
“Rhapsody in Rivets” is an orchestral work composed by George Gershwin for “Delicious.” It was intended to be the film’s main title theme, capturing the energetic pulse of 1930s New York. The piece evokes the sounds and rhythms of construction, industry, and urban life, with its distinctive orchestration and percussive elements. It is often performed as a standalone concert piece.
FAQ 2: Why is “Delicious” not as famous as other Gershwin works?
While “Delicious” holds historical significance, it lacks the widespread recognition of works like “Porgy and Bess” or “Rhapsody in Blue” for several reasons. Firstly, the film itself wasn’t a major success. Secondly, Gershwin’s contribution to the film, while significant, was limited, making it less identifiable as a purely “Gershwin” creation. Finally, the film is difficult to access, making it harder for modern audiences to experience the music in its original context.
FAQ 3: Did Gershwin write any other songs specifically for “Delicious”?
Yes, Gershwin wrote the song “Blah, Blah, Blah,” which gained considerable popularity independently of the film. He also contributed to other musical cues and incidental music, though the exact extent of his involvement beyond “Rhapsody in Rivets” and “Blah, Blah, Blah” is sometimes debated among Gershwin scholars.
FAQ 4: Who else worked on the music for “Delicious”?
In addition to Gershwin, Oscar Levant played a crucial role in the musical composition and arrangement for “Delicious.” Levant, a close friend of Gershwin, was brought in to complete the score and provide additional musical support. His contributions were essential in bringing the film’s musical vision to fruition.
FAQ 5: What was Gershwin’s opinion of working in Hollywood?
Gershwin’s experience working on “Delicious” and later films was somewhat ambivalent. He appreciated the exposure and financial rewards Hollywood offered but often felt constrained by the studio system’s creative limitations. He ultimately preferred the greater artistic control he enjoyed on Broadway.
FAQ 6: Where can I listen to “Rhapsody in Rivets”?
“Rhapsody in Rivets” has been recorded by numerous orchestras and ensembles. A simple online search for “Rhapsody in Rivets Gershwin recording” will yield many results on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.
FAQ 7: Is the film “Delicious” available to watch?
Finding a readily accessible copy of “Delicious” can be challenging. It is not widely available on streaming services, but occasionally appears on classic film channels or is screened at repertory theaters. Check online film databases and classic film communities for information on viewing opportunities.
FAQ 8: What is the plot of the film “Delicious”?
“Delicious” tells the story of a young Scottish immigrant, Heather Gordon (played by Janet Gaynor), who arrives in New York City and becomes entangled in a romantic relationship with a wealthy polo player (played by Charles Farrell). The film explores themes of class, immigration, and the American Dream, set against the backdrop of 1930s New York.
FAQ 9: What is the significance of “Blah, Blah, Blah” in the context of the film?
“Blah, Blah, Blah” is a lighthearted and playful song that reflects the film’s romantic comedy tone. Its nonsensical lyrics add to its charm and contribute to the film’s overall sense of escapism and entertainment. The song also showcases Gershwin’s ability to create catchy and memorable melodies.
FAQ 10: Did Gershwin write any other film scores?
Yes, Gershwin later collaborated with his brother Ira on several Hollywood films, including “Shall We Dance” (1937), “A Damsel in Distress” (1937), and “Goldwyn Follies” (1938). These films feature some of his most enduring songs, such as “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off” and “They Can’t Take That Away From Me.”
FAQ 11: How does “Delicious” compare to Gershwin’s other works?
“Delicious” is generally considered a minor work compared to Gershwin’s iconic compositions for Broadway and the concert hall. However, it offers valuable insights into his experimentation with film music and his willingness to explore new artistic avenues. The music, particularly “Rhapsody in Rivets,” demonstrates his distinctive compositional style and his ability to capture the spirit of his time.
FAQ 12: Where can I learn more about George Gershwin’s life and music?
Numerous biographies, documentaries, and academic studies delve into George Gershwin’s life and musical legacy. Reputable sources include biographies by Howard Pollack and Joan Peyser. The Library of Congress’s Gershwin Collection and websites dedicated to Gershwin’s music offer extensive resources for further research. These resources provide a comprehensive understanding of Gershwin’s impact on American music and culture.