I've Heard That Song Before

Harry James

About I've Heard That Song Before

"I've Heard That Song Before" is a 1942 popular song about nostalgia with music by Jule Styne and lyrics by Sammy Cahn. It was introduced by Martha O'Driscoll (dubbed by Margaret Whiting) in the 1942 film Youth on Parade. The song was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1942 but lost out to “White Christmas”. It was recorded by Harry James and his Orchestra with Helen Forrest on vocal on July 31, 1942. This was the last day of recording before the Musician Union's ban. The recording was issued on Columbia 36668 and became a number one hit on both the pop charts and the Harlem Hit Parade in the US in early 1943. This version of the song can be heard in Woody Allen's 1986 movie Hannah and Her Sisters. 


Year:
1955
24 

 The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com

It seems to me I've heard that song before
It's from an old familiar score
I know it well, that melody

It's funny how a theme recalls a favorite dream
A dream that brought you so close to me
I know each word because I've heard that song before

The lyrics said "forever more"
Forever more's a memory
Please have them play it again

And I'll remember just when I've heard that lovely song before

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


Harry James

Henry Haag “Harry” James (March 15, 1916 – July 5, 1983) was an actor and musician best known as a trumpeter who led a swing band during the Big Band Swing Era of the 1930s and 1940s. He was especially known among musicians for his astonishing technical proficiency as well as his superior tone. more »

1 fan

Written by: JULE STYNE, SAMMY CAHN

Lyrics © CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING LLC, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Historical Context
"I've Heard That Song Before" was recorded by Harry James and his Orchestra on July 31, 1942. The song became popular during World War II.
Collaborative Composition
The song was composed by Sammy Cahn and Jule Styne. Helen Forrest provided the vocals for the recording with Harry James and his Orchestra.
Chart Success
The song was a massive hit and topped the Billboard charts in 1943, staying in the top position for thirteen weeks. It was James’s second No.1 on the chart, following "Sleepy Lagoon."
Album Inclusion
"I've Heard That Song Before" was included in many of Harry James' compilation albums and is still a favourite among fans.
Covers and Usage in Media
It was later covered by various artists such as Frank Sinatra and has been used in a number of films such as Woody Allen's film "Hannah and Her Sisters" in 1986.
Helen Forrest's signature song
Helen Forrest, a popular singer of her time, considered "I've Heard That Song Before" to be one of her signature songs. She sang the song frequently during her appearances with Harry James and his orchestra.
Nostalgic Value
Like many World War II-era songs, "I’ve Heard That Song Before" evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminding many of the uncertainties and romance of the war years.
Philosophical Interpretation
Sammy Cahn’s lyrics can be interpreted in a philosophical way as they refer to the experience of déjà vu - feeling like one has already experienced what is happening in the present.
Tone of the Song
Despite its nostalgic and war era tone, the song has a cheerfully swinging rhythm that is typical of Harry James’ orchestra. It offers a stark contrast to many other melancholic war-time songs.
Role in Music History
"I've Heard That Song Before" is not only a testament to the talents of Harry James, Helen Forrest, Sammy Cahn, and Jule Styne but also an important piece of history, offering insights into the musical tastes and sentiments of the early 1940s.

Discuss the I've Heard That Song Before Lyrics with the community:

0 Comments

    Citation

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

    Style:MLAChicagoAPA

    "I've Heard That Song Before Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 28 Mar. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/728176/Harry+James/I%27ve+Heard+That+Song+Before>.

    Missing lyrics by Harry James?

    Know any other songs by Harry James? Don't keep it to yourself!

    Watch the song video

    I've Heard That Song Before

    4,761
    75     2

    Browse Lyrics.com

    Quiz

    Are you a music master?

    »
    Who featured who in "Laugh Now Cry Later"?
    A Drake ft. Lil Durk
    B Beyonce ft. Olivia Rodrigo
    C Lil Mosey ft. No Cap
    D Fancy ft. Rihana

    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 Harry James's

    Upcoming Events

    »
    Harry James tracks

    On Radio Right Now

    Loading...

    Powered by OnRad.io


    Think you know music? Test your MusicIQ here!