The Boys In the Back Room

Frederick Hollander, Marlene Dietrich

About The Boys In the Back Room

"The Boys in the Back Room" is a song written by Frank Loesser, set to music by Frederick Hollander and performed by Marlene Dietrich in the film, Destry Rides Again (1939). It is often referenced as "See What the Boys in the Back Room Will Have". Her winking performance was a parody of her vampish roles in earlier films such as The Blue Angel (1930) and Blonde Venus (1932). The song became a standard part of her repertoire, second only to "Lili Marlene". She also sang a German version called "Gib doch den Männern am Stammtisch ihr Gift". The song was also featured in the Audie Murphy Western, Gunsmoke (1953), sung in the town saloon by Cora Dufrayne, played by Mary Castle. In Rainer Werner Fassbinders World on a Wire (1973), Ingrid Caven performs the song. It is often sung by Lieutenant Gruber in 'Allo 'Allo! 


Year:
2011
2:08
2,046 
#5

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See what the boys in the backroom will have
And tell them I'm having the same
Go see what the boys in the backroom will have
And give them the poison they name

And when I die don't spend my money
On flowers and my picture in a frame

[Chorus]
Just see what the boys in the backroom will have
And tell them I sighed and tell them I cried
And tell them I died of the same

And when I die don't buy a casket of silver
With the candles all aflame

Just see what the boys in the backroom will have
And tell them I sighed and tell them I cried
And tell them I died of the same

And when I die don't pay the preacher
For speaking of my glory and my fame

Just see what the boys in the backroom will have
And tell them I sighed and tell them I cried
And tell them I died of the same

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Marlene Dietrich

Marlene Dietrich (German pronunciation: [maɐˈleːnə ˈdiːtʁɪç]; 27 December 1901 – 6 May 1992) was a German-American actress and singer. more »

7 fans

Written by: FRANK LOESSER, FREDERICK HOLLANDER

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

History of the Song
"The Boys in the Back Room" was originally recorded in 1939 by Marlene Dietrich. It was consisted among one of her most famous songs.
Movie Connection
The song was featured in the movie "Destry Rides Again" where Dietrich played the character of "Frenchy," and sang the song in a barroom scene.
Song Composer
This well-known tune was composed by Frank Loesser, with Frederick Hollander working on the music. Both were eminent composers of the time.
Song Theme
The song is known for its suggestive themes, hinting at the mysterious, raucous activities of 'the boys in the back room.'
Chart History
Even though the popularity of the song is unquestionable, it did not make significant chart history, perhaps due to the era it was released in.
Multiple Recordings
Dietrich recorded the song several times throughout her career, and it became one of her performance staples.
Pop Culture Reference
The song is referenced in a number of films and TV shows, including a 1989 episode of "Doctor Who", where it is sung by the character Ace.
Cabaret Performances
"The Boys in the Back Room" became a popular choice in cabaret performances, a genre Dietrich was synonymous with during her career.
Tribute Performances
Various artists have covered the song as a tribute to Dietrich, including Ute Lemper and Alexandra Billings.
Song Interpretation
The song is often interpreted as a satirical representation of gender relations, making it a popular feminist anthem.

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