All Or Nothing At All
Benny Carter · Other Songs - Benny Carter
Half a love, never appealed to me
If your heart, never could yield to me
Then I'd rather (rather) have nothing at all
All or nothing at all
If it's love, there is no in between
Why begin then cry, for something that might have been
No I'd rather (rather) have nothing at all
But please don't bring your lips so close to my cheek
Don't smile or I'll be lost beyond recall
The kiss in your eyes, the touch of your hand makes me weak
And my heart may go dizzy and fall
And if I fell (I fell) under the spell of your call
I would be, caught in the undertow
So you see, I've got to say no, no
All or nothing at all
All Or Nothing At All
Benny Carter's rendition of 'All Or Nothing At All' stands as a testament to his enduring mastery of the jazz idiom. A towering figure in music history, Carter was a versatile saxophonist, trumpeter, composer, and arranger whose influence shaped the swing era and beyond. This recording captures his signature lyrical phrasing and sophisticated harmonic sense, transforming a standard into a personal statement. Throughout his extensive career, Carter navigated various musical landscapes, from big band arrangements to small group improvisations, always maintaining a commitment to melodic clarity and emotional depth. His interpretation of this classic ballad reflects the elegance and restraint that defined his approach to performance. The track remains a vital part of his discography, showcasing the timeless quality of his artistry and his ability to imbue familiar material with fresh, compelling energy.