Ballerina

Mel Torme · Other Songs - Mel Torme

Dance, ballerina, dance

And do your pirouette in rhythm with your achin' heart

Dance, ballerina, dance

You mustn't once forget a dancer has to dance the part

Whirl, ballerina, whirl

And just ignore the chair that's empty in the second row

This is your moment, girl

Although he's not out there applauding as you steal the show

Once you said his love must wait its turn

You wanted fame instead

I guess that's your concern

We live and learn

And love is gone, ballerina, gone

So on with your career, you can't afford a backward glance

Dance on and on and on

A thousand people here have come to see the show

As 'round and 'round you go

So ballerina, dance

Dance, dance!

Whirl ballerina

Once you said his love must wait its turn

You wanted fame instead

I guess that's your concern

We live and learn

And love is gone, ballerina, gone

So on with your career, you can't afford a backward glance

Dance on and on and on

A thousand people here have come to see the show

As 'round and 'round you go

So ballerina, dance

Dance

Ballerina

Mel Tormé's rendition of "Ballerina" stands as a testament to his enduring mastery of the Great American Songbook. Known as the Velvet Fog, Tormé brought a distinctive clarity and sophisticated phrasing to his recordings, often elevating standard material through his impeccable sense of rhythm and tone. This track captures the elegance and poise associated with the title, showcasing Tormé's ability to convey narrative depth without relying on vocal pyrotechnics. As part of his extensive catalogue, the song reflects his commitment to jazz and pop standards, demonstrating why he remains a revered figure in vocal jazz history. The recording highlights his unique capacity to blend emotional resonance with technical precision, offering listeners a refined auditory experience that defines his artistic legacy.