By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a measure designating the song, “Massachusetts,” sung by Springfield native Montenia Shider, as the state’s official jazz song.

Supporters said the bill will honor 79-year-old Shider, who has been singing for more than 40 years and also taught music.

Rep. Orlando Ramos (D-Springfield), the sponsor of the proposal, did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking him to comment on initial approval of his bill and why he filed it.

The song was written by Andy Razaf and Charles Roberts and first recorded in July 1942 by Gene Krupa, many years before Shider recorded it in the 1990s, with new lyrics focused on western Massachusetts.