First Dance Fridays

Last Friday I went all radical and tried something different for a first dance suggestion, and so to be judicious, this Friday Im going back to a classic. I always feel Sam Cooke is a little under appreciated in the pantheon of soul singers even though You Send Me is actually considered to be the first soul song ever, but there is nothing wrong with giving the man a little contemporary recognition.   You Send Me is such a delightfully sweet song that blends elements of jazz, R&B and gospel into a wonderful standard that any generation can enjoy. I see a dimly lit room with twinkling lights, a groom in a navy blue suit with black piping on his lapel and a bride in something a little retro inspired, maybe even tea-length. There is a warm yellow spotlight shining down on them. The two dance cheek to cheek in a lazy sort of way. Its a song that drifts in like fog and lilts like a lullaby. The guests will sip their cocktails and sway to the music without even realizing it.   And yet as soft and gentle as the song is, it is very much upbeat, uplifting, happy and warm. It will fill your guests with warmth as you dance. And what is also great is the song does the work, so you dont have to. You dont have to be a great dancer for this number; its more about mood than movement. A little sway is all it takes. You Send Me - Sam Cooke