This Could Be the Start of Something Big

This video clip induced a visceral longing for an alternate universe in which Chuck Berry and Elvis never happened -- it may be the first time I've experienced that. Steve Allen used this as his theme song. He wrote it (Steve was a real Renaissance Man), and it's an under-appreciated gem.

Sure, it's only a paper moon, but I love the whole clubby "don't you want to be in Hollywood and New York, too?" feeling. And while it should seem elitist, it doesn't off that way (and didn't at the time). They sing about it in a way that Sardi's and Venice Beach could just as easily be Howard Johnson's and Coney Island. It's not elitist, it's aspirational.

And what a great tracking shot. Special guest appearance near the end.

R.I.P. Eydie Gormé, who died this August. H/T, Powerline Blog.