But Not for Me

George Gershwin, Judy Garland

About But Not for Me

"But Not for Me" is a popular song originally written by George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin for the musical Girl Crazy (1930) and sung by Ginger Rogers. Ella Fitzgerald's 1959 version of "But Not for Me," which appeared on Ella Fitzgerald Sings the George and Ira Gershwin Songbook, won the 1960 Grammy Award for Best Female Vocal Performance. Singer Ketty Lester remade "But Not for Me" with a gospel arrangement. The song reached No. 10 on the US Adult Contemporary chart, No. 41 on the Billboard Top 40, and No. 45 in the UK in 1962. 


Year:
1994
104 
#1

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Old Man Sunshine, listen, you
Never tell me dreams come true
Just try it, and I'll start a riot
Beatrice Fairfax, don't you dare
Ever tell me he will care
I'm certain, It's the final curtain

I never want to hear from any cheerful Pollyannas
Who tell you fate supplies a mate, it's all bananas

They're writing songs of love, but not for me
A lucky star's above, but not for me
With love to lead the way
I found more skies of gray
Than any Russian play could guarantee

I was a fool to fall, and get that way
Hi-ho, alas, and also lack-a-day
Although I can't dismiss
The memory of his kiss
I guess he's not for me

Although I can't dismiss
The memory of his kiss
I guess he's not for me

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George Gershwin

George Gershwin (September 26, 1898 – July 11, 1937) was an American composer and pianist. Gershwin's compositions spanned both popular and classical genres, and his most popular melodies are widely known. Among his best known works are the orchestral compositions Rhapsody in Blue and An American in Paris, as well as the opera Porgy and Bess. more »

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Written by: George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin

Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


8 facts about this song

Song Origins
"But Not for Me" is a popular song, composed by George Gershwin, with lyrics by his brother Ira Gershwin, for the 1930 Broadway musical "Girl Crazy", which starred their frequent collaborator, Ethel Merman.
Ketty Lester’s Version
Singer and actress Ketty Lester, best known for her pop hit "Love Letters", did a soulful cover of "But Not for Me", transforming the lighthearted show tune into a heartfelt ballad.
Recognition
The song was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1930. Despite not winning, it's remained a cherished standard in the American Songbook.
Other Versions
Though Lester's version is quite popular, "But Not for Me" has been performed by dozens of artists over the years, including greats like Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Elton John, and many others.
Jazz Standard
It has become a jazz standard, rearranged and performed by several notable jazz musicians and bands.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of "But Not for Me" are a bit melancholic as they narrate the story of an individual who believes that love is not destined for them. This made it a favorite for torch singers and artists with a knack for the dramatic.
Musical Style
Gershwin's original composition incorporates a mix of popular and classical techniques indicative of his style. Lester’s version of the song showcases her unique vocal prowess and emotional delivery.
Legacy
The song, in its variety of iterations, remains a loved classic. It's been featured in several films and TV shows including Woody Allen's "Manhattan", contributing significantly to its ongoing relevance and popularity.

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