"I Wish You Love" is a beloved standard, originally composed by Léo Chauliac with French lyrics by Charles Trenet ("Que reste-t-il de nos amours?") and adapted into English by Albert A. Beach. The English version, first recorded by Keely Smith in 1957, retains the wistful, bittersweet spirit of the original, expressing both farewell and enduring affection.
Nancy Wilson's recording of "I Wish You Love" appeared on her 1960 debut album Like in Love for Capitol Records. This version quickly became one of her signature songs, showcasing her ability to blend jazz, pop, and soul with elegance and emotional depth2. Wilson is accompanied by a stellar lineup, including Ben Webster on tenor saxophone and arrangements by Billy May, which add lush, sophisticated textures to her nuanced vocal delivery.
Lyrics and Interpretation
The lyrics of "I Wish You Love" are a poignant farewell, offering heartfelt good wishes to a former lover despite the pain of parting:
I wish you bluebirds in the spring
To give your heart a song to sing
And then a kiss, but more than this
I wish you loveAnd in July, a lemonade
To cool you in some leafy glade
I wish you health, and more than wealth
I wish you loveMy breaking heart and I agree
That you and I could never be
So with my best, my very best
I set you freeI wish you shelter from the storm
A cozy fire to keep you warm
But most of all, when snowflakes fall
I wish you love1
Wilson’s interpretation is marked by her trademark storytelling ability and emotional nuance. She delivers the song with both warmth and restraint, turning it into a gentle, dignified goodbye that resonates with listeners. Her phrasing and subtle dynamics highlight the song’s mix of sorrow and hope, making it a classic example of her artistry234.
Cultural and Musical Legacy
Nancy Wilson was celebrated for her versatility, transcending genre boundaries and bringing sophistication to every song she touched234. "I Wish You Love" is emblematic of her approach: she transforms the standard into a deeply personal statement, balancing jazz phrasing with pop accessibility. Over a career spanning more than 50 years and 70 albums, Wilson’s version of "I Wish You Love" remains a touchstone for vocal jazz and pop stylists234.
Key Facts Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Composer | Léo Chauliac (music), Charles Trenet (French lyrics), Albert A. Beach (English lyrics) |
| First English Recording | Keely Smith (1957) |
| Nancy Wilson Version | Like in Love (1960, Capitol Records) |
| Arrangement | Billy May |
| Notable Musicians | Ben Webster (tenor sax), Pete Condoli, Frank Beach, Conrad Gozzo (trumpet), Shelly Manne (drums) |
| Style | Jazz-pop ballad, sophisticated and emotionally nuanced |
| Legacy | Signature Nancy Wilson song, vocal jazz standard |
Summary
Nancy Wilson’s "I Wish You Love" is a masterful interpretation of a bittersweet farewell, blending jazz sophistication with heartfelt emotion. Her luminous voice, paired with lush arrangements and sensitive accompaniment, turns the song into a timeless classic—one that continues to move listeners with its grace and sincerity1234.
