Puttin' on the Ritz

Taco

About Puttin' on the Ritz

"Puttin' On the Ritz" is a song written by Irving Berlin. He wrote it in May 1927 and first published it on December 2, 1929. It was registered as an unpublished song August 24, 1927 and again on July 27, 1928. It was introduced by Harry Richman and chorus in the musical film Puttin' On the Ritz (1930). According to The Complete Lyrics of Irving Berlin, this was the first song in film to be sung by an interracial ensemble. The title derives from the slang expression "to put on the Ritz", meaning to dress very fashionably. This expression was itself inspired by the opulent Ritz Hotel in London. Hit phonograph records of the tune in its original period of popularity of 1929–1930 were recorded by Harry Richman and by Fred Astaire, with whom the song is particularly associated. Every other record label had their own version of this popular song (Columbia, Brunswick, Victor, and all of the dime store labels). Richman's Brunswick version of the song became the number-one selling record in America. The song was featured in the 1974 Mel Brooks horror/comedy Young Frankenstein. The song is performed by Frederick Frankenstein (Gene Wilder) and his monster (Peter Boyle). more »

Year:: 1994
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Taco

A taco ( /ˈtɑːkoʊ/, /ˈtækoʊ/) Nahuatl: tlacopan[t͡ɬa.'ko.pan] is a traditional Mexican dish composed of a corn or wheat tortilla folded or rolled around a filling. A taco can be made with a variety of fillings, including beef, pork, chicken, seafood, vegetables and cheese, allowing for great versatility and variety. A taco is generally eaten without utensils and is often accompanied by garnishes such as salsa, avocado or guacamole, cilantro, tomatoes, minced meat, onions and lettuce. more »

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12 facts about this song

Writer and Composer "Puttin' on the Ritz" was originally written and composed by Irving Berlin in 1927. Berlin is widely considered one of the greatest songwriters in American history.
First Performance Fred Astaire first performed this song in the 1930 film "Puttin' on the Ritz". The song was a major hit and is often associated with Astaire, renowned for his work in musical films.
First Record The first record of the song was by Harry Richman and was a Number One hit in 1930.
Lyrics Revision The original lyrics of the song, which referred to Harlem's African-American nightlife, were revised by Berlin for the 1930 film to avoid potential racial controversies.
Performance Style Astaire's performance of the song in the movie is noteworthy for his impeccable tap dance routine, exhibiting his talent not just as a singer but as a dancer.
Cover Version Dutch singer Taco Ockerse, famously known as Taco, released a synthesized pop version of "Puttin' on the Ritz" in 1982, which brought the song into the modern age.
Taco's Version Chart Success Taco's version of the song topped the charts in Sweden and New Zealand, and it hit No. 4 in the US on the Billboard Hot 100.
Music Video Controversy The music video for Taco's version sparked controversy due to its use of performers in blackface. This led to the video being re-edited for certain markets.
Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein Reference The song was humorously performed by Gene Wilder and Peter Boyle in the film "Young Frankenstein" in a memorable scene.
Longevity and Popularity Despite its age, "Puttin' on the Ritz" is still recognized and loved today, proving the song's enduring appeal. It is often used in films, commercials and TV shows to convey a sense of classic glamour and sophistication.
Song Title Origin The title "Puttin' on the Ritz" refers to the phrase meaning to dress fashionably. The term originates from the upscale Ritz Hotel.
Inducted into Grammy Hall of Fame In 2006, Fred Astaire's recording of "Puttin' on the Ritz" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, recognizing its qualitative and historical significance.

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"Puttin' on the Ritz Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2025. Web. 17 Mar. 2025. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/122812/Taco/Puttin%27+on+the+Ritz>.

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