But Not For Me

Doris Day · Other Songs - Doris Day

Old man sunshine, listen you
Don't you tell me dreams come true
Just try it, and I'll start a riot

Beatrice Fairfax, don't you dare
Ever tell me he will care
I'm certain, it's the final curtain

I never wanna hear
From any cheerful Pollyannas
Who tell you Fate
Supplies a mate
It's all bananas!

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 found more clouds of gray
Than any Broadway play
Could guarantee

I was a fool to fall
And get that way
Hi-ho, alas
And also, lack-a-day

But still I can't dismiss
The memory of his kiss
I guess he's not for me

But Not For Me

Doris Day's rendition of 'But Not For Me' stands as a testament to her enduring versatility within the American popular song canon. While often celebrated for her bright, upbeat vocal style, Day frequently embraced sophisticated jazz standards that allowed for deeper emotional resonance. This recording captures her ability to navigate the nuanced phrasing required by the Gershwin composition, delivering a performance that balances playful charm with genuine sentiment. The track fits seamlessly into her extensive discography, which spans decades of influential recordings across pop, swing, and traditional pop genres. Day's interpretation remains a beloved example of her skill in transforming established material into personal artistic statements, securing her legacy as a definitive voice of her era.