The song "What a Difference a Day Makes" is a popular standard originally composed in 1934 by Mexican songwriter María Grever as "Cuando vuelva a tu lado," meaning "When I Return to Your Side". The English lyrics were later adapted by American lyricist Stanley Adams, transforming it into the version widely known today.
Dinah Washington's 1959 rendition is the most celebrated interpretation of the song. Her version, arranged by Belford Hendricks, won the Grammy Award for Best Rhythm and Blues Performance at the 2nd Annual Grammy Awards and was later inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998. It also became her first top ten pop hit, reaching number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 4 on the Billboard Hot R&B Sides chart.
Origin and Adaptation
The song began as a Spanish ballad expressing longing and romantic anticipation, with subtle undertones of forbidden love. When adapted into English, the lyrics shifted toward a more conventional Tin Pan Alley style, emphasizing emotional transformation through romantic fulfillment. The English version uses weather imagery—such as rainbows, clear skies, and sunshine—to symbolize the dramatic emotional shift brought about by love.
Cultural Impact
Dinah Washington's performance is widely regarded as definitive, praised for its lush orchestration, emotive phrasing, and sophisticated delivery. The song has been covered by numerous artists including Chet Baker, Ray Conniff, and Della Reese, though Washington’s version remains the most iconic. Additionally, the song has influenced hip-hop music, being sampled in tracks such as John Forte’s “What A Difference” and Blackalicious’ “Day One”.
Album and Legacy
The track was the title song of Washington’s 1959 album What a Diff’rence a Day Makes! , released under Mercury Records and later reissued on CD by Verve with bonus tracks. The album solidified her status as a leading figure in jazz and R&B, blending pop sensibilities with deep emotional resonance [web:
