But Not for Me
George Gershwin, Nelson Riddle & His Orchestra, Ella Fitzgerald
Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!
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've found more clouds of gray Than any Russian play could guarantee I was a fool to fall and get that way Hi ho, alas, and also lackaday Although I can't dismiss The memory of his kiss I guess he's not for me I was a fool to fall and get that way Hi ho, alas, and also lackaday Although I can't dismiss The memory of his kiss I guess he's not for me
Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer
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 VersionSinger 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.
|
RecognitionThe 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 VersionsThough 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 StandardIt has become a jazz standard, rearranged and performed by several notable jazz musicians and bands.
|
The LyricsThe 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 StyleGershwin'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.
|
LegacyThe 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.
|
Citation
Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:
Style:MLAChicagoAPA
"But Not for Me Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 22 Sep. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/6358108/George+Gershwin/But+Not+for+Me>.
Discuss the But Not for Me Lyrics with the community:
Report Comment
We're doing our best to make sure our content is useful, accurate and safe.
If by any chance you spot an inappropriate comment while navigating through our website please use this form to let us know, and we'll take care of it shortly.
Attachment
You need to be logged in to favorite.
Log In