How Long Has This Been Going On?

George Gershwin, Coleman Hawkins

About How Long Has This Been Going On?

"How Long Has This Been Going On?" is a song composed by George Gershwin, with lyrics by Ira Gershwin for the musical Funny Face in 1928.


3:54

 Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!

As a tot, when I trotted in little velvet panties,
I was kissed by my sisters, my cousins, and my aunties.
Sad to tell, it was hell, an inferno worse than Dante's.

So my dear I swore,
"Never, never more !"
On my list, I insisted that kissing must be crossed out.
Now, I find I was blind, and oh my! 
How I lost out!

I could cry salty tears,
Where have I been all these years?
Little wow, tell me now,
How long has this been going on?

There were chills up my spine,
And some thrills I can't define.
Listen, sweet, I repeat,
How long has this been going on?

Oh, I feel that I could melt,
Into Heaven I'm hurled!
I know how Columbus felt,
Finding another world.

Kiss me once, then once more.
What a dunce I was before.
What a break! 
For Heaven's sake!
How long has this been going on?

Dear, when in your arms I creep,
That divine rendezvous,
Don't wake me, if I'm asleep,
Let me dream that it's true!

Kiss me twice, then once more.
That makes thrice, let's make it four!
What a break! 
For Heaven's sake!
How long has this been going on?
How long has this, been going on?

 Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!


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 »

2 fans

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


6 facts about this song

Composition & Release Date
"How Long Has This Been Going On?" is composed by George Gershwin, with the lyrics written by his brother Ira Gershwin. - The song was written in 1927 and was first performed for the musical "Funny Face."
Lyrics & Themes
It is a hypnotically melancholic ballad about the wonder of newfound love. - With lines like, "How long has this been going on? Oh, I feel that I could melt, into heaven, I'm hurled," it captures the thrill of unexpected romantic encounters.
Initial Performance
The musical number was dropped during out-of-town tryouts for "Funny Face," but then reinstated when the show came to Broadway. - It was originally introduced by Adele Astaire and later performed in the London production by Queenie Smith.
Recognition & Popularity
"How Long Has This Been Going On?" has become a Jazz standard and is considered one of Gershwin's best songs. - The melody has continued to be covered by many artists over the years, ensuring it remains famous worldwide.
Notable Recordings
There are numerous cover versions of the song, with artists from different genres adding their unique interpretations. - Renowned artists that have recorded this song include Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Cher, and Sam Cooke.
Accolades & Legacy
The song secured its position as a classic, demonstrating the immense talent of the Gershwin brothers. - It continues to be performed and recorded, symbolizing a lasting legacy in the histories of both theatre and jazz.

Discuss the How Long Has This Been Going On? Lyrics with the community:

0 Comments

    Citation

    Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:

    Style:MLAChicagoAPA

    "How Long Has This Been Going On? Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 23 Apr. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/27259981/George+Gershwin/How+Long+Has+This+Been+Going+On%3F>.

    Missing lyrics by George Gershwin?

    Know any other songs by George Gershwin? Don't keep it to yourself!

    Watch the song video

    How Long Has This Been Going On?

    14,970
    0     0

    Browse Lyrics.com

    Quiz

    Are you a music master?

    »
    Which song did this line come from? "You should take it as a compliment. If I were you, I would be more confident".
    A Happier Than Ever - Billie Eilish
    B Pretty Girl - Clairo
    C Dying on the Inside - Nessa Barrett
    D Talk to Me - Cavetown

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Chrome

    Get instant explanation for any lyrics that hits you anywhere on the web!

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Firefox

    Get instant explanation for any acronym or abbreviation that hits you anywhere on the web!

    Don't miss George Gershwin's

    Upcoming Events

    »
    George Gershwin tracks

    On Radio Right Now

    Loading...

    Powered by OnRad.io


    Think you know music? Test your MusicIQ here!

    Movies soundtrack

    How Long Has This Been Going On?

    »