When She Smiles
Perry Como · Other Songs - Perry Como
An' maybe I still do,
I'd rather have the one I'm with than cry again for you . . .
She don't have your magic,
An' she don't have your style,
But she don't cross her fingers when she smiles!
When she smiles,
She's like a sweet honest child,
She don't cross her fingers when she smiles!
< instrumental break >
The feeling's still still inside me,
An' I guess it's gonna stay,
I hope that you don't think that I can't turn and walk away,
Someone stood beside me through my heartaches and my trials,
She don't cross her fingers when she smiles!
She don't use the clever moves,
That players like you've known,
She can take me anywhere I'd ever care to go . . .
< instrumental break >
And if you think I'm foolin'
Then you can have a laugh on me!
But the day I sell my soul for you,
Is just a memory . . .
And if I ever see you girl,
I'll stop an' talk awhile,
I'll probably cross my fingers when I smile!
She don't cross her fingers
When she smiles!
She don't cross her fingers,
When she smiles!
Words and Music by Jerry Liliedahl
When She Smiles
Perry Como's "When She Smiles" stands as a quintessential example of his smooth, romantic vocal style that defined the mid-20th century. The song captures the gentle warmth of a man's voice, perfectly suited to the ballad format popular during the era. Como's delivery is characterized by its characteristic ease and charm, making the track a staple of his extensive discography. As a recording from his catalog, it exemplifies the polished pop standards he helped popularize, focusing on themes of affection and quiet happiness without relying on complex instrumentation. The song remains a representative piece of his contribution to American pop music, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotion through a simple, unpretentious arrangement.