Begin The Beguine
Steve Lawrence · Other Songs - Steve Lawrence
It brings back the sound of music so tender,
It brings back a night of tropical splendour,
It brings back a memory evergreen.
I'm with you once more under the stars,
And down by the shore an orchestra's playing
And even the palms seem to be swaying
When they begin the beguine.
To live it again is past all endeavour,
Except when that tune clutches my heart,
And there we are, swearing to love forever,
And promising never, never to part.
What moments divine, what rapture serene,
Till clouds came along to disperse the joys we had tasted,
And now when I hear people curse the chance that was wasted,
I know but too well what they mean;
So don't let them begin the beguine
Let the love that was once a fire remain an ember;
Let it sleep like the dead desire I only remember
When they begin the beguine.
Oh yes, let them begin the beguine, make them play
Till the stars that were there before return above you,
Till you whisper to me once more,
"Darling, I love you!"
And we suddenly know, what heaven we're in,
When they begin the beguine
Begin The Beguine
Steve Lawrence's 1958 recording of 'Begin The Beguine' stands as a defining example of the doo-wop and pop standards revival of the late 1950s. Originally written by George and Ira Gershwin for their 1926 musical 'Lady Be Good', the song was reimagined here with Lawrence's distinctive baritone vocals and a smooth, sophisticated arrangement that bridged the gap between classic jazz and contemporary pop. The track became a signature piece for Lawrence, often appearing on his albums alongside other duets and solo ballads that showcased his vocal range and emotional depth. Its enduring appeal lies in its elegant melody and timeless lyrical themes of romantic longing, making it a staple of mid-century American music history and a frequent cover choice for artists across various genres.

