Once Upon a Time

Perry Como

About Once Upon a Time

"Once Upon a Time" is a song composed by Charles Strouse, with lyrics by Lee Adams, from the 1962 musical All American. It describes the loss of love over time. In the musical, the song was performed by Ray Bolger and Eileen Herlie, and their version appears on the Broadway Cast recording. It has been sung by Eddie Fisher, Bobby Darin, Frank Sinatra, Perry Como, Tony Bennett and Bob Dylan among others.


Year:
1962
3:50
709 
#1

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Once upon a time, 
A girl with moonlight in her eyes, 
Put her hand in mine, 
And said she loved me so
But that was once upon a time, 
Very long ago! 

Once upon a hill, 
we sat beneath the willow tree, 
Counting all the stars, 
And waiting for the dawn, 
But that was once upon a time, 
Now, the tree is gone! 

How the breeze ruffled through her hair, 
How we always laughed, 
As though tomorrow wasn't there
We were young, 
And didn't have a care, 
Where did it go? 

Once upon a time, 
The world was sweeter than we knew, 
Everything was ours, 
How happy we were then
But, somehow, once upon a time, 
Never comes again!

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Perry Como

Pierino Ronald "Perry" Como (May 18, 1912 – May 12, 2001) was an American singer and television personality. During a career spanning more than half a century he recorded exclusively for the RCA Victor label after signing with them in 1943. "Mr. C.", as he was nicknamed, sold millions of records for Radio Corporation of America (RCA) and pioneered a weekly musical variety television show, which set the standards for the genre and proved to be one of the most successful in television history. Como was seen weekly on television from 1949 to 1963, then continued hosting the Kraft Music Hall variety program on a monthly basis until 1967. His television shows and seasonal specials were broadcast throughout the world. Also a popular recording artist, Perry Como pro… more »

10 fans

Written by: Charles Strouse, Lee Adams

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


9 facts about this song

ARTIST: Bobby Darin
"Once Upon a Time" was recorded by Bobby Darin in 1962. - Although it was not one of his top-charting hits, it has remained a favorite among fans of Darin's work.
SONG ORIGINATION
"Once Upon a Time" was originally written for the musical "All American." - It serves as a romantic ballad within the context of the show.
ARTIST: Eddie Fisher
Eddie Fisher also recorded a version of "Once Upon a Time." - The song is often recognized for its lush orchestration and Fisher's emotive performance.
MUSICAL GENRE
"Once Upon a Time" is generally classified as a pop standard. - It shares many characteristics with jazz and traditional pop songs of the 1950s and 60s.
ARTIST: Frank Sinatra
Frank Sinatra included his interpretation of "Once Upon a Time" in his 1965 album "September of My Years." - Sinatra's version of the song received critical acclaim.
LYRICAL THEME
"Once Upon a Time" is about nostalgia and longing for a past relationship. - It paints a picture of happier times, making it an emotionally resonant piece.
ARTIST: Perry Como
Perry Como's performance of "Once Upon a Time" is revered for his smooth, relaxed vocal style. - His version also showcases the song's timeless quality.
ARTIST: Tony Bennett
Tony Bennett has also performed and recorded "Once Upon a Time." - His interpretation is often praised for its heartfelt delivery and charismatic charm.
SONG IMPACT
Despite its multiple covers, each rendition of "Once Upon a Time" maintains its core sound and sentiment. - Its lasting popularity demonstrates the enduring appeal of classic standards in pop culture.

Discuss the Once Upon a Time Lyrics with the community:

1 Comment
  • ironmike
    I lived the lyrics, close to precisely. Debbie died of metastatic breast cancer 3-9-2000 after A 9 year battle. The willow tree , the hill , the wind in her hair all live eternally in my memories; dreams. Next was " Last Date " , Floyd Kramer which was in the 100th Bomb Group across from Hopkin's airport . Veal Normandine was her selection . From there I drove her to the hospital. We had dates afterwards but in A hospice setting. Requiescat in Pacem. 
    LikeReply1 year ago

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