Why Was I Born?
Billie Holiday · Complete Masters 1933 - 1959 [2011]
Why am I livin'?
What do I get?
What am I givin'?
Why do I want for things
I dare not hope for?
What can I hope for?
I wish I knew
Why do I try to draw you near me?
Why do I cry, you never hear me?
I'm a poor fool but what can I do
Oh baby I was born to love you
Why Was I Born?
Billie Holiday's haunting rendition of 'Why Was I Born?' stands as a quintessential example of her transformative approach to the jazz standard. Originally a popular song from the 1930s, Holiday reimagined it with a brooding, introspective delivery that emphasized emotional vulnerability over technical virtuosity. Her interpretation, featured on the definitive 'Complete Masters 1933 - 1959' collection, showcases her mastery of swing and her ability to infuse familiar melodies with a unique, melancholic atmosphere. This recording captures the essence of her mid-career artistry, where she elevated the jazz vocal tradition by prioritizing lyrical phrasing and subtle dynamic shifts. The track remains a significant piece in the canon of American jazz, illustrating how Holiday could turn a simple question into a profound exploration of existential doubt and personal struggle.