Thanks For The Memory

Bud Shank · Other Songs - Bud Shank

Thanks for the memory

Of sentimental verse,

Nothing in my purse,

And chuckles

When the preacher said

For better or for worse,

How lovely it was.



Thanks for the memory

Of Schubert's Serenade,

Little things of jade

And traffic jams

And anagrams

And bills we never paid,

How lovely it was.



We who could laugh over big things

Were parted by only a slight thing.

I wonder if we did the right thing,

Oh, well, that's life, I guess,

I love your dress.



Thanks for the memory

Of faults that you forgave,

Of rainbows on a wave,

And stockings in the basin

When a fellow needs a shave,

Thank you so much.



Thanks for the memory

Of tinkling temple bells,

Alma mater yells

And Cuban rum

And towels from

The very best hotels,

Oh how lovely it was.



Thanks for the memory

Of cushions on the floor,

Hash with Dinty Moore,

That pair of gay pajamas

That you bought

And never wore.



We said goodbye with a highball,

Then I got as high as a steeple,

But we were intelligent people,

No tears, no fuss,

Hooray for us.



Strictly entire nous,

Darling, how are you?

And how are all

Those little dreams

That never did come true?



Awfully glad I met you,

Cheerio and toodle-oo

Thank you,

Thank you so much.

About Thanks For The Memory

Bud Shank's "Thanks For The Memory" stands as a definitive example of the cool jazz style he helped pioneer in the late 1950s. Recorded on his celebrated album *Bud Shank Plays Bud Shank*, the track showcases his mastery of the baritone saxophone within the context of the swing era. Shank, a former member of the Dave Brubeck Quartet, brought a sophisticated, lyrical approach to his instrument that distinguished his solo work from the big band arrangements of his earlier career. The composition itself, often associated with the film *The Man with the Golden Arm*, features a melodic structure that invites improvisation while maintaining a tight rhythmic foundation. This recording captures the essence of post-war jazz, blending technical precision with an emotional depth that resonated with audiences seeking both entertainment and artistic integrity. It remains a staple in collections of baritone saxophone solos and swing-era recordings.