Can’t We Be Friends – 2025

Emmet Cohen

The pianist and his trio are joined by singer Cyrille Aimee

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“Can’t We Be Friends” was composed in 1929 by Kay Swift with lyrics by Paul James.

Despite its age, the song’s story and message remain timeless.

96 years after it was written, “Can’t We Be Friends” was performed by pianist Emmet Cohen on his renowned Emmet’s Place podcast.

While Cyrille Aimee effectively sings the first and last choruses, this rendition is most notable for Cohen’s extended and inventive piano solo, and a melodic and very swinging spot by Phillip Norris with backing by Pedro Segundo.

-Scott Yanow

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