The Girl From Ipanema
Percy Faith · The Great Percy Faith [2007]
The girl from Ipanema goes walking
And when she passes, each one she passes goes - ah
When she walks, she's like a samba
That swings so cool and sways so gentle
That when she passes, each one she passes goes - ah
(Ooh) But he watch her so sadly
How can he tell her he loves her
Yes I would give my heart gladly
But each day, that she walks to the sea
She looks straight ahead, not at he
Tall, (and) tan, (and) young, (and) lovely
The girl from Ipanema goes walking
And when she passes, he smile - but she doesn't see
(Doesn't see)
(She just doesn't see, she never sees him)
The Girl From Ipanema
Percy Faith's rendition of "The Girl From Ipanema" stands as a testament to his mastery of lush orchestral arrangements and sophisticated pop sensibilities. Originally a cornerstone of the Bossa Nova genre, this classic composition found new life under Faith's direction, who was renowned for blending light orchestral textures with contemporary hits. His interpretation captures the breezy, romantic essence of the original while infusing it with the rich, sweeping strings that defined his signature sound. This recording highlights Faith's ability to elevate standard repertoire into memorable performances, showcasing his enduring influence on easy listening and orchestral pop. The track remains a celebrated example of his extensive catalogue, demonstrating how his production style could transform a global standard into a distinct, emotionally resonant piece of music.