The Meaning Behind The Song: How Long Has This Been Going On? by Louis Armstrong & Oscar Peterson
| Title | How Long Has This Been Going On? |
|---|---|
| Artist | Louis Armstrong & Oscar Peterson |
| Writer/Composer | George Gershwin & Ira Gershwin |
| Album | Louis Armstrong Meets Oscar Peterson (1957) |
| Release Date | 1957 |
| Genre | Pop, Jazz |
| Producer | N/A |
How Long Has This Been Going On? is a timeless pop-jazz classic performed by Louis Armstrong and Oscar Peterson. Written by George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin, this song was featured in their collaborative album, ‘Louis Armstrong Meets Oscar Peterson’, released in 1957.
When listening to this enchanting piece, one cannot help but get lost in the heartfelt lyrics and mesmerizing melodies. The song captures the emotions of someone who has been unaware of a deep, passionate love that has been right in front of them all along.
The opening lines, “As a tot, when I trotted in little velvet panties, I was kissed by my sisters, my cousins, and my anties”, paints a vivid picture of the innocence and naivety the narrator once had. They believed that avoiding romantic entanglements was the wisest choice, vowing to never experience the pain and folly that love often brings.
However, as time goes on, the narrator realizes that they were blind to the beauty of love. They express their regrets, asking, “How long has this been going on?” The longing in their voice is palpable as they beg for an answer to the question that has haunted them.
The desire and curiosity of the narrator intensify as they sing, “There were chills up my spine, and some thrills I can’t define”. It is a testament to the power of love and how it can completely consume a person’s being. The song beautifully captures the overwhelming emotions that come with discovering love for the first time.
The refrain, “Kiss me once, then once more, what a dunce I was before”, showcases the narrator’s realization of the missed opportunities and their desire to make up for lost time. They yearn to experience the depth and intensity of love, which they had previously dismissed.
As the song progresses, the emotions become even more apparent. The lyrics suggest a feeling of euphoria and complete surrender to love. The lines, “Oh, I feel that I could melt, into Heaven I’m hurled! I know how Columbus felt, finding another world”, vividly depict the overwhelming joy and excitement that love brings.
Listening to How Long Has This Been Going On? always reminds me of a personal experience where I, too, discovered a love that had been hidden in plain sight. It was during a summer evening, sitting by a waterfront, when a dear friend surprised me with an unexpected confession of their affection.
As they poured their heart out, I was swept away by a torrent of emotions. The lyrics of this song echoed in my mind, as I questioned how I had missed the signs of love that were right in front of me. The powerful combination of the haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics truly captured the intensity of that moment.
How Long Has This Been Going On? not only resonates with those who have experienced a late realization of love, but it also serves as a reminder to open our eyes and hearts to the possibilities that may be right in front of us. It encourages us to embrace love, even if it means letting go of our reservations and fears.
With their soulful performances, Louis Armstrong and Oscar Peterson brought this song to life, infusing it with their unique musical styles and undeniable talent. Their rendition of How Long Has This Been Going On? remains a timeless classic, reminding us of the power of love and the journey of self-discovery that often accompanies it.
In conclusion, How Long Has This Been Going On? by Louis Armstrong and Oscar Peterson is a beautiful masterpiece that captures the essence of an unexpected love. With its heartfelt lyrics and mesmerizing melody, the song invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences with love and reminds us to remain open to the transformative power of romance.
