How Do You Keep The Music Playing
Johnny Mathis · Other Songs - Johnny Mathis
How do you make it last?
How do you keep a song from fading too fast?
How do you lose yourself to someone?
And never lose your way
How do you not run out of new things to say?
And since we know we're always changing
Why should it be the same?
And tell me how year after year
You're sure your heart will fall apart
Each time you hear her name
I know the way you feel for her, it's now or never
The more I love, the more that I'm afraid
That in her eyes, I may not see forever, forever
If you can be the best of lovers
Yet be the best of friends
If we can try with everyday to make it better
As it grows, with any luck, then I suppose
The music never ends
I know the way I feel for her, it's now or never
(How do you keep the music playing?)
(How do you make it last?)
The more I love, the more that I'm afraid
That in her eyes, I may not see forever, forever
If you can be the best of lovers
Yet be the best of friends
If we can try with everyday to make it better
As it grows, with any luck, then I suppose
The music never, never, never ends
About How Do You Keep The Music Playing
Johnny Mathis's "How Do You Keep The Music Playing" stands as a quintessential example of his smooth, romantic vocal style that defined the late 1950s and early 1960s. The track features his signature warm tone and gentle phrasing, characteristic of the easy listening genre that Mathis helped popularize globally. Released during a period when he was establishing himself as a leading interpreter of pop standards, the song reflects the era's focus on intimate, melodic ballads designed for personal connection and relaxation. Mathis's ability to convey deep emotion without aggressive delivery made this recording a staple in his extensive discography. The composition relies on subtle instrumentation and his nuanced vocal performance to create an atmosphere of quiet longing, a hallmark of his work. While the specific album placement may vary in different releases, the song remains a significant song in his catalog, showcasing his enduring appeal as a vocalist who prioritized lyrical clarity and melodic beauty over theatrical flair.