The Meaning Behind The Song: Bali Ha’i by Juanita Hall
| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bali Ha’i | Juanita Hall | Richard Rodgers, Oscar Hammerstein II | South Pacific (Original Broadway Cast Recording) (1949) | 1949 | Broadway | Goddard Lieberson |
“Bali Ha’i” is a beautiful and captivating song from the musical ‘South Pacific,’ with the unforgettable vocals of Juanita Hall. Released in 1949 as part of the Original Broadway Cast Recording, the song continues to resonate with its listeners as it captures the essence of longing and escapism.
The lyrics of “Bali Ha’i” evoke a sense of a remote and idyllic island, calling to individuals who yearn for a place where they truly belong. Bloody Mary, the character singing the song, describes how most people live on a lonely island, lost in a foggy sea. However, deep within their hearts, they long for another island where they would love to be.
Bali Ha’i represents that place of sanctuary, whispering an invitation on the wind of the sea. It symbolizes a utopia, far away from the troubles and worries of everyday life. The song conveys the allure of this magical island, where individuals can escape to find their own special hopes and dreams blooming on the hillside and shining in the streams.
The repeated refrain, “Come away… Come away,” urges listeners to embrace the call of Bali Ha’i and embark on a journey to find their own personal paradise. It beckons individuals to escape the monotony and routine of their lives and seek out a place where the sky meets the sea, and their dreams can take flight.
Personally, “Bali Ha’i” holds a significant place in my heart. The first time I heard this enchanting song, I was immediately captivated by its melodious tune and evocative lyrics. It transported me to a world of imagination and wonder, where I could envision a secluded island awaiting my arrival.
Whenever I find myself yearning for a break from the pressures and demands of reality, I turn to “Bali Ha’i” to remind myself of the importance of self-care and finding moments of tranquility. The song ignites a sense of wanderlust within me, encouraging me to explore new horizons and create my own personal oasis. It serves as a reminder that everyone deserves to find their own Bali Ha’i, a place where they can find solace and fulfillment.
The timeless nature of “Bali Ha’i” is further evident through its numerous covers and reinterpretations over the years. Artists like Percy Faith, Holly Cole, Meat Puppets, and Peggy Lee have all put their own unique spin on the song, adding new layers of emotion and depth to its already enchanting melody.
In conclusion, “Bali Ha’i” by Juanita Hall is a song that transcends time, touching the hearts of listeners with its evocative lyrics and captivating melody. It speaks to the universal desire for escapism and the search for a place where one truly belongs. Whether it’s a physical destination or a state of mind, we all long for our own version of Bali Ha’i, where dreams become reality and the stresses of the world fade away.
