“For All We Know”and Dave Brubeck (120)

“For All We Know” is a reflective ballad that has become a lasting part of the American Songbook and the jazz repertoire. Written in 1934 by composer J. Fred Coots with lyrics by Sam M. Lewis, the song first gained popularity through dance-band recordings such as Hal Kemp’s version featuring Skinnay Ennis. Its melody is graceful and understated, built on a classic 32-bar with lyrics that focus on the fragile and uncertain nature of love. The opening line—“For all we know, we may never meet again”—immediately establishes the theme of impermanence and emotional vulnerability. Because of this introspective quality, the tune has appealed to both vocalists and instrumentalists, eventually becoming a favored ballad vehicle for jazz musicians.

A memorable instrumental interpretation appears on the Dave Brubeck Quartet’s At Carnegie Hall (1963). Paul Desmond presents the melody with his characteristically warm, airy tone and relaxed phrasing, before moving into a lyrical improvisation. Brubeck follows with a solo that begins in his cool, understated style before expanding into rhythmic interplay and subtle syncopation. Known for his interest in unusual meters and structural experimentation, Brubeck still shows here how effectively he could interpret a traditional standard. Backed by Eugene Wright on bass and Joe Morello on drums, the quartet creates a sophisticated yet accessible performance that highlights the song’s melodic beauty while allowing space for improvisational development.

Billie Holiday

Dave Brubeck

The Jazz Real Book Vol. 2