Cole Porter wrote What Is This Thing Called Love? for the 1929 musical Wake Up and Dream. I wonder if he was wearing thar critter robe when he sat down at the piano to compose this tune. Like Cole, I only have questions, answers are in short supply.

We begin with the best, Billie Holiday.

Frank Sinatra and Nelson Riddle cut a torchy version of the Porter tune in 1955

Ella Fitzgerald was one of the finest interpreters of Porter’s music. This version of this week’s tune is a knockout.

Keely Smith is best known for her work with Louis Prima. Here she is Swingin’ Pretty after the couple broke up.

A small group version from Dinah Washington. With apologies to Lady Day, this may be the best of the bunch

What is the Friday Cocktail Hour without jazz instrumental versions of the week’s tune? This time, Charlie Parker, Charlie Mingus, and Oscar Peterson.

Have I told you lately how much I love Oscar Peterson?

That’s it for this week. I propose a toast to the great Cole Porter. Thanks for all the fabulous words and music. It’s what Bogie, Betty, and Frank would want. Never argue with them.