How Long Has This Been Going On

George Gershwin, Diane Schuur

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.


Year:
2006
4:26
98 
#1

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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?

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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 »

2 fans

Written by: WILLIAM C HANDY

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Universal Music Publishing Group, Warner/Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Composer and Musician
This song was composed by George Gershwin, an American composer who gained international fame for his work in both classical and popular music genres.
Lyricist
The lyrics of "How Long Has This Been Going On" were created by Ira Gershwin, George's brother. The two brothers often collaborated together, creating some of the most cherished songs in American music.
Original Intention
The song was originally intended for the 1927 musical "Funny Face," where it was meant to be performed by Fred Astaire, but it was eventually dropped from the production.
Debut
"How Long Has This Been Going On" finally made its debut in the 1928 musical "Rosalie" where Bobbe Arnst sang it.
Genre
The song style belongs to the genre of American classic jazz and has been covered by several influential musicians, showcasing its timeless appeal.
Notable Covers
Some of the most famous renditions of the song are those by Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Judy Garland, and more recently, by English singer Charlie Puth.
Lyrics
The lyrics show a theme of longing, romantic awakening, and surprise at an unexpected love.
Musical Structure
The song reflects George Gershwin's musical talent in its sophisticated melodic lines and delicate implementation of the jazz style in its harmonies and rhythms.
Legacy
"How Long Has This Been Going On" remains one of the most enduring pieces in the Gershwin brothers' songbook. It's often used in musical revues and renditions that display the exceptional creativity of these iconic American composers.
Influence
The song has transcended time and genre, distinguishing itself as a popular jazz standard, and its melody and lyrics have been sampled in several songs in contemporary music.

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