A Couple of Swells

MGM Studio Orchestra, Fred Astaire, Judy Garland

About A Couple of Swells

"We're a Couple of Swells" is an American comedy duet song performed by Judy Garland and Fred Astaire in the film Easter Parade (1948). It was written by Irving Berlin. Berlin originally wrote the song Let's Take an Old-Fashioned Walk for the scene but the film's producer, Arthur Freed, convinced Berlin to change this for a song that would highlight Garland's comedic talent. Berlin wrote the song in about an hour drawing on his experience as a Tin Pan Alley popular songwriter. more »

Year:: 2007
: 2:37
: 104 Views
Playlists:: #2

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Fred Astaire

Fred Astaire (born Frederick Austerlitz; May 10, 1899 – June 22, 1987) was an American film and Broadway stage dancer, choreographer, singer, musician and actor. His stage and subsequent film career spanned a total of 76 years, during which he made 31 musical films. He was named the fifth Greatest Male Star of All Time by the American Film Institute. He is particularly associated with Ginger Rogers, with whom he made ten films. more »

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Jazz, Stage & Screen

10 facts about this song

Song Origin "A Couple of Swells" is a song from the 1948 movie “Easter Parade.” It was composed by Irving Berlin, renowned composer and lyricist.
Performers The song was performed by Hollywood legends Fred Astaire and Judy Garland, who were both known for their singing and dancing abilities. This was their only film together.
Movie Story The song fits into the movie as part of a vaudeville routine performed by the characters played by Garland and Astaire.
Signature Song Despite its comedic and slightly downtrodden tone, "A Couple of Swells" became one of Judy Garland's signature songs.
Song Lyrics The lyrics describe two vagabonds - or “swells” as they call themselves - who dream of being dressed in style and strolling down Fifth Avenue, despite their reality of being dirty and worn out.
Choreography The choreography in the film was performed in tattered clothes, with the performers (Astaire and Garland) clad in tramp costumes. This contrasted with the style of the high-brow patrons they hoped to one day be.
Film Success The film, “Easter Parade,” was a box-office success, and has been considered one of the classic "backstage" musicals.
Facets of Performance The song showcased both Garland's strength in comedy and Astaire's often-overlooked ability to play comedy as well.
Professional relationship Judy Garland reportedly called the “A Couple of Swells” number her favorite out of all the ones she ever did. Her professional relationship with Fred Astaire was quite close; she even went on to say that Astaire was her favorite dance partner.
Cultural Impact The song has been covered and referenced multiple times in popular culture, providing further testimony to its enduring impact.

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