Of all the songs to choose I had a request from a couple who are regulars and friends of the owner in the restaurant where I've been playing. Somewhere Over the Rainbow. Does ,anyone do it and how to not sound corny? Sing, play instrumental, Rhythm used ?
The other is Let's Stay Together. Al Green. I love this song and can't get a handle on it. I sing mostly around the key of G being a,Baritone. I'm thinking maybe the range is too wide for me? Anyone have any success with these? Any thoughts appreciated? Thanks

Over the Rainbow works well with a slow brush swing, or a 12/8 with minimal backing (think "Unchained Melody")
As for the Al Green song, I do it in C with a simple 8 beat pattern, (ala "My Girl") but I add a bass drum on all fours. Gives it more of a drive.

You will find I sound exactly like Judy Garland on this one:
https://app.box.com/files/4/f/0/1/f_96303004958

bill check your email

You could try this ... I have performed it with a Hawaiian style and gotten compliments on it ...

I was denied access

Don't know why, it works for me. It's not that good though!
Let me try again: https://app.box.com/s/sfef4htdotmfikcftcxs83pwa78vs0gm

That one worked ...
Judy is JEALOUS !!! So is Kenny G !!!

I fell in love with Judy Garland when I was just 7 years old, and this song has been with me ever since.

I use a 12/8 style for this one. Over The Rainbow

In my archives, I have a recording of my daughter singing this song, and she does a much better job than I do. Here's her recording of Over The Rainbow using the same style.

Tony, I never really liked that Hawaiian rendition of Over The Rainbow, but maybe it's because I tend to be a traditionalist when it comes to certain songs - especially this one.

Good luck,

Gary

Gary ... I am USUALLY a traditionalist, but I was asked to play the Hawaiian version and got as close as I could ... fortunately the client liked it ...
And that's why they make vanilla, chocolate, strawberry and CHUNKY MONKEY !!!