20th Century Friday: Bolcom – Song of Black Max [As Told by the de Kooning Boys] (1986)

“Song of Black Max (As Told by the de Kooning Boys)” is a renowned 1985 cabaret song composed by William Bolcom with lyrics by Arnold Weinstein. It is part of Cabaret Songs, Vol. 1 and depicts a mysterious, almost mythical figure haunting the Amsterdam underworld, based on stories artist Willem de Kooning shared.

• The Subject: Black Max is described as a shadowy, rarely seen figure dressed in black, representing a gritty, urban legend from the streets.
• Context: The lyrics, written by Weinstein, are based on recollections from painter Willem de Kooning and his artistic circle (the “de Kooning boys”).
• Style: The piece is a dramatic, narrative-driven art song, blending dark storytelling with cabaret, often performed by mezzosopranos or baritones.