Que Sera Sera
Doris Day · Just You, Just Me [2011]
I asked my mother: "What will I be?
Will I be pretty? Will I be rich?"
Here's what she said to me:
Que sera sera
Whatever will be, will be
The future's not ours to see
Que sera sera
What will be, will be
Since I am just a boy in school,
I asked my teacher: "What should I try?
Should I paint pictures? Should I sing songs?"
This was her wise reply:
Que sera sera
Whatever will be, will be
The future's not ours to see
Que sera sera
What will be, will be
When I grew up and fell in love,
I asked my lover: "What lies ahead?
Will we have rainbows day after day?"
Guess what my lover said:
Que sera sera
Whatever will be, will be
The future's not ours to see
Que sera sera
What will be, will be
Now I have children of my own
They ask their mother: "What will I be?"
"Will I be pretty?" "Will I be rich?"
I tell them tenderly:
Que sera sera
Whatever will be, will be
The future's not ours to see
Que sera sera
What will be, will be
Que Sera Sera
Doris Day's 1956 recording of 'Que Sera Sera' stands as a defining anthem of optimism and resilience. Originally composed by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans, the song's central theme asserts that life's events will unfold as they must, regardless of human control. Day's delivery, characterized by her signature clear tone and gentle phrasing, transformed the material into an enduring standard that resonated deeply with audiences seeking comfort during uncertain times. Featured on her 2011 compilation 'Just You, Just Me', this track exemplifies her mastery of pop and traditional standards, blending lyrical wisdom with melodic simplicity. The song's enduring popularity underscores its ability to transcend specific eras, serving as a timeless reminder to embrace the future with grace.