When They Begin The Beguine Sheet Music
When They Begin The Beguine Sheet Music and mandolin tab by Cole Porter with lyrics and chords in D Major.
The 1935 song 'Begin the Beguine' has become one of the most beloved and iconic songs of the Great American Songbook. Written by Cole Porter, the song has been covered by countless artists, from Frank Sinatra to Julio Iglesias, and has stood the test of time as a timeless classic. But what is it about this song that has captured the hearts of listeners for over eight decades? This thesis will explore the origins, musical and lyrical elements, and cultural impact of 'Begin the Beguine' to understand its enduring popularity and significance in American music history.
The origins of 'Begin the Beguine' can be traced back to Cole Porter's travels to Europe in the early 1930s. As a successful Broadway composer and songwriter, Porter was constantly seeking inspiration for new material. During a trip to Paris in 1935, he attended a performance of the popular dance style known as the beguine, a slow, sensual dance originating from Martinique. This experience inspired him to write a song that captured the exotic and romantic essence of the beguine, and thus 'Begin the Beguine' was born.
Musically, the song is a perfect representation of Porter's signature sophisticated and jazzy style. The melody is a combination of smooth, sweeping lines and syncopated rhythms, creating a sense of sensuality and movement. The use of Latin and Caribbean influences, such as the clave rhythm and the use of maracas and congas, further adds to the exotic appeal of the song. In addition, the harmonic structure of the song is complex and unconventional, with unexpected chord changes and key modulations that add depth and interest to the composition.
However, it is not just the musical elements that make 'Begin the Beguine' a standout song. The lyrics, also written by Porter, are poetic and evocative, telling a story of a man reminiscing about a lost love and the passionate beguine dance they shared. The opening line, 'When they begin the beguine, it brings back the sound of music so tender,' sets the tone for the rest of the song, painting a picture of nostalgia and longing. Throughout the song, Porter uses clever wordplay and vivid imagery to describe the beguine dance and the emotions it evokes, making the song both romantic and bittersweet.
The song was first introduced in the Broadway musical Jubilee in 1935, where it was performed by June Knight and Charles Walters. However, it wasn't until Artie Shaw and his orchestra recorded an instrumental version in 1938 that 'Begin the Beguine' became a hit. Shaw's recording was a huge success, topping the charts for six weeks and selling over a million copies. This catapulted the song to international fame and cemented its place in American music history.
Over the years, 'Begin the Beguine' has been covered by a wide range of artists, from jazz greats like Benny Goodman and Ella Fitzgerald to pop icons like Madonna and Lady Gaga. Each interpretation brings a unique flavor to the song, but the underlying beauty and appeal remain the same. The song has also been featured in numerous films and TV shows, further solidifying its place in popular culture.
In conclusion, 'Begin the Beguine' is a timeless masterpiece that has captured the hearts of listeners for generations. Its exotic and romantic origins, sophisticated musical and lyrical elements, and enduring popularity have solidified its place as one of the most iconic songs of the Great American Songbook. Cole Porter's genius as a composer and songwriter shines through in this song, making it a testament to his lasting impact on American music. 'Begin the Beguine' will continue to be cherished and performed for years to come, reminding us of the power of music to transport us to another time and place.
The origins of 'Begin the Beguine' can be traced back to Cole Porter's travels to Europe in the early 1930s. As a successful Broadway composer and songwriter, Porter was constantly seeking inspiration for new material. During a trip to Paris in 1935, he attended a performance of the popular dance style known as the beguine, a slow, sensual dance originating from Martinique. This experience inspired him to write a song that captured the exotic and romantic essence of the beguine, and thus 'Begin the Beguine' was born.
Musically, the song is a perfect representation of Porter's signature sophisticated and jazzy style. The melody is a combination of smooth, sweeping lines and syncopated rhythms, creating a sense of sensuality and movement. The use of Latin and Caribbean influences, such as the clave rhythm and the use of maracas and congas, further adds to the exotic appeal of the song. In addition, the harmonic structure of the song is complex and unconventional, with unexpected chord changes and key modulations that add depth and interest to the composition.
However, it is not just the musical elements that make 'Begin the Beguine' a standout song. The lyrics, also written by Porter, are poetic and evocative, telling a story of a man reminiscing about a lost love and the passionate beguine dance they shared. The opening line, 'When they begin the beguine, it brings back the sound of music so tender,' sets the tone for the rest of the song, painting a picture of nostalgia and longing. Throughout the song, Porter uses clever wordplay and vivid imagery to describe the beguine dance and the emotions it evokes, making the song both romantic and bittersweet.
The song was first introduced in the Broadway musical Jubilee in 1935, where it was performed by June Knight and Charles Walters. However, it wasn't until Artie Shaw and his orchestra recorded an instrumental version in 1938 that 'Begin the Beguine' became a hit. Shaw's recording was a huge success, topping the charts for six weeks and selling over a million copies. This catapulted the song to international fame and cemented its place in American music history.
Over the years, 'Begin the Beguine' has been covered by a wide range of artists, from jazz greats like Benny Goodman and Ella Fitzgerald to pop icons like Madonna and Lady Gaga. Each interpretation brings a unique flavor to the song, but the underlying beauty and appeal remain the same. The song has also been featured in numerous films and TV shows, further solidifying its place in popular culture.
In conclusion, 'Begin the Beguine' is a timeless masterpiece that has captured the hearts of listeners for generations. Its exotic and romantic origins, sophisticated musical and lyrical elements, and enduring popularity have solidified its place as one of the most iconic songs of the Great American Songbook. Cole Porter's genius as a composer and songwriter shines through in this song, making it a testament to his lasting impact on American music. 'Begin the Beguine' will continue to be cherished and performed for years to come, reminding us of the power of music to transport us to another time and place.
