The Meaning Behind The Song: Begin the Beguine by Cole Porter
In 1935, the world was introduced to a song that would go on to become one of the greatest jazz standards of all time. “Begin the Beguine,” composed by Cole Porter, is known for its infectious rhythms, intricate instrumentation, and haunting melody. The song catapulted Porter to new heights of fame and cemented his place in the pantheon of American songwriters. But what is the meaning behind this iconic tune? Let’s take a closer look.
The Origin of the Song
Cole Porter was vacationing on a cruise ship in the summer of 1935 when he first heard Latin American music. He was immediately captivated by the rhythms and styles of the music and was inspired to write a song that incorporated them. He returned to his cabin, and in just a few hours, he had composed “Begin the Beguine.”
The Meaning of the Title
The word “beguine” refers to a dance style that originated in the West Indies and was popular in the 1930s. The word itself comes from the French word “béguin,” which means “hood” or “headdress.” The dance is characterized by its slow, swaying movements and sensuous rhythms.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of “Begin the Beguine” are a tribute to the power of music to transport us to other worlds. The song talks about a romantic encounter on a tropical island, where the music of the beguine sweeps the lovers away:
“When they begin the beguine
It brings back the sound of music so tender
It brings back a night of tropical splendor
It brings back a memory evergreen”
The song goes on to describe the way the music moves the lovers and the way it fills them with a sense of longing and desire:
“To live it again is past all endeavor
Except when that tune clutches my heart
And there we are, swearing to love forever
And promising never, never to part”
The Music
The music of “Begin the Beguine” is notable for its complex rhythms, lush harmonies, and intricate instrumentation. The song starts with a slow, sultry rhythm, and then builds to a frenzied climax, driven by the drums and the brass section. The melody is haunting and memorable, and has been covered by countless artists over the years.
The Legacy of the Song
“Begin the Beguine” is considered one of the greatest jazz standards of all time, and has been covered by a wide range of artists from different genres. The song has been recorded by everyone from Artie Shaw and Bing Crosby to Julio Iglesias and Shakira. The song’s popularity has endured for more than 80 years, and it continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
The Significance for Cole Porter
“Begin the Beguine” was a turning point for Cole Porter’s career. The song was a huge hit when it was first released, and it helped to establish him as one of the greatest songwriters of his generation. Prior to “Begin the Beguine,” Porter was known primarily for his work in musical theater, but the success of the song opened up new opportunities for him in the world of popular music.
The Significance for Jazz Music
“Begin the Beguine” is also significant for its impact on jazz music. The song was one of the first jazz standards to incorporate Latin American rhythms and styles, and it helped to expand the boundaries of the genre. The song’s popularity helped to bring jazz music to a wider audience, and it paved the way for new styles and innovations in the years that followed.
The Lyrics and Cultural Context
The lyrics of “Begin the Beguine” reflect the cultural context in which the song was written. In the 1930s, the world was in the midst of the Great Depression, and people were looking for ways to escape the hardships of their daily lives. The song’s tropical imagery and exotic rhythms offered a way to transport listeners to a different world, and to dream of a more romantic and glamorous life.
The Success of the Song
“Begin the Beguine” was an enormous success when it was first released. The song topped the charts in 1935 and remained popular for decades to come. It helped to establish Cole Porter as a major figure in the world of popular music, and it remains one of his most enduring and beloved compositions.
The Impact on Popular Music
“Begin the Beguine” had a profound impact on the world of popular music. The song’s success helped to establish jazz music as a popular genre, and it paved the way for new styles and innovations in the years that followed. The song has been covered by countless artists from different genres, and it continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
The Use of the Song in Popular Culture
“Begin the Beguine” has been used in countless films, television shows, and commercials over the years. The song’s lush melodies and exotic rhythms make it an ideal choice for romantic and dramatic scenes, and it has been featured in everything from classic Hollywood musicals to modern-day dramas.
The Song’s Enduring Popularity
“Begin the Beguine” is an enduring classic that continues to entertain and inspire listeners around the world. The song’s lush melodies, haunting rhythms, and intricate instrumentation make it a timeless masterpiece that will be cherished for generations to come.
The Importance of the Song in American Music
“Begin the Beguine” is an important part of the American songbook, and it continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest jazz standards of all time. The song’s impact on popular music cannot be overstated, and it remains a testament to the power of music to transport us to other worlds and to inspire us to dream big.
The Challenges of Performing the Song
“Begin the Beguine” is a challenging song to perform, requiring precision, passion, and a deep understanding of the music’s complex rhythms and harmonies. Performing the song requires a skilled vocalist and a talented band, and it is a true test of a musician’s ability.
The Future of the Song
“Begin the Beguine” is a timeless classic that will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come. As new artists discover the song and put their own spin on it, the song will continue to evolve and remain fresh and relevant.
Conclusion
“Begin the Beguine” is a masterpiece of American music, a testament to the power of music to transport us to other worlds and to inspire us to dream big. The song’s enduring popularity and timeless melodies make it a true classic that will continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.
