Introduction:
“Misty,” a timeless ballad that has serenaded generations, is most famously associated with the velvety voice of Johnny Mathis. Although the melody was originally composed as an instrumental piece in 1954 by the acclaimed jazz pianist Erroll Garner, it was Johnny Burke’s lyrical addition and Mathis’s subsequent rendition that propelled the song to mainstream success. Mathis recorded “Misty” in 1959, and it was featured on his album “Heavenly”, released that same year.
The genre of “Misty” as performed by Johnny Mathis falls primarily under traditional pop or ballad. Characterized by its lush orchestral arrangements, Mathis’s smooth and emotive vocals, and a romantic, sentimental lyrical theme, the song perfectly encapsulates the style that made him a beloved figure in popular music.
While Erroll Garner’s instrumental version was already a popular jazz standard, Johnny Mathis’s vocal performance brought “Misty” to a wider audience. Released as a single, it quickly climbed the charts, reaching number 12 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 in late 1959. Beyond its initial chart success, “Misty” has achieved enduring popularity and has become one of Mathis’s signature songs. Its timeless appeal is evident in its continued presence in popular culture, featuring in numerous films and television shows. Notably, “Misty” earned Johnny Mathis his first Grammy nomination in 1960 for Best Male Vocal Performance – Single Record or Track. Further cementing its significance, “Misty” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2002, recognizing its lasting artistic and historical importance. The song’s gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics, combined with Mathis’s iconic delivery, have made “Misty” a beloved standard, cherished for its romanticism and musicality.