Fact Finder - Music

In an era dominated by high-energy pop and nu-metal, Norah Jones' 'Don't Know Why' was an unlikely hit. The song was written by Jesse Harris and recorded for Jones' debut album 'Come Away with Me.' The version on the album was actually a demo—the band tried to re-record it multiple times in a professional studio, but they could never recapture the intimate, low-key magic of the original demo session. The song's success was driven by 'word of mouth' rather than flashy marketing, eventually reaching number 30 on the Billboard Hot 100—a rare feat for a jazz-influenced ballad. The album went on to win eight Grammy Awards, with 'Don't Know Why' taking home Record of the Year and Song of the Year. It is credited with bringing a sophisticated, 'adult alternative' sound back to the mainstream and remains a staple of 'coffee house' and chill-out playlists worldwide.