Perry Como – “Round and Round”: A Classic Hit That Captures the Rhythm of Romance
Introduction
“Round and Round” is one of Perry Como’s most iconic songs, and it remains a timeless classic in the world of popular music. Released in 1948, this upbeat, jazzy tune quickly became a major hit and is still remembered for its infectious melody, catchy rhythm, and the smooth vocal style that Perry Como made famous. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the story behind the song, its success, and why “Round and Round” continues to captivate audiences to this day.
The Story Behind “Round and Round”
Written by Jule Styne (music) and Sammy Cahn (lyrics), “Round and Round” was introduced to the world as part of the 1948 film A Date with Judy. The film, a musical comedy starring Jane Powell and Elizabeth Taylor, featured the song as a lively number performed by the character portrayed by Perry Como.
The song itself is a lighthearted and playful tune about the dizzying, cyclical nature of love. The lyrics describe how love can go in circles, with emotions that twist and turn, much like a dance or a game. It’s a joyful reflection on the emotional highs and lows that come with romantic attraction, and the catchy refrain makes it unforgettable.
Perry Como’s Smooth Interpretation
What truly elevates “Round and Round” is Perry Como’s distinctive vocal performance. Known for his smooth baritone voice and relaxed delivery, Como was the perfect choice to sing a song like “Round and Round,” which requires both charm and effortless style. His ability to turn a playful song into a romantic ballad with his soothing tone was one of the reasons he became one of the most beloved singers of his era.
Como’s rendition of the song is as smooth as the lyrics themselves, with his trademark ability to sing a cheerful tune while still evoking a sense of warmth and sincerity. His voice brings an inviting quality to the song that makes listeners want to smile, sing along, and perhaps even fall in love.
Why “Round and Round” Is Still Loved Today
There are several reasons why “Round and Round” continues to be adored by listeners around the world. Here are a few key aspects of the song that have made it stand the test of time:
- Catchy Melody
The song’s melody is undeniably catchy. The rhythm is infectious, and it’s the kind of tune that gets stuck in your head long after it ends. Its upbeat tempo and lively nature make it a feel-good song, perfect for lifting spirits and setting a positive mood. The melody is timeless, and even though it was recorded decades ago, it remains as fun and catchy as ever. - Relatable Lyrics
The lyrics of “Round and Round” are simple, but they beautifully capture the playful and sometimes confusing nature of love. The image of love going around in circles resonates with anyone who has experienced the dizzying rush of emotions that come with romantic feelings. The song’s relatable and universal theme is part of why it’s so enduring. - Perry Como’s Charismatic Performance
Perry Como’s vocal style, characterized by its smoothness, warmth, and accessibility, is a huge part of the song’s lasting appeal. He was known for his ability to connect with his audience through his voice, and “Round and Round” is no exception. His voice lends the song a sense of charm that makes it not just a catchy tune, but a memorable listening experience. - A Song That Defies Time
Despite being recorded in 1948, “Round and Round” is a song that sounds just as fresh and appealing today as it did when it was first released. It has been embraced by different generations, from those who experienced its original release to younger audiences discovering Perry Como’s music through streaming platforms. The song’s timeless appeal is a testament to its quality and the enduring power of music.
Conclusion
“Round and Round” by Perry Como is a perfect example of how music transcends time and generations. With its infectious melody, relatable lyrics, and Como’s charming performance, the song remains a classic that continues to bring joy to listeners worldwide. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting it as a beloved classic, “Round and Round” is a reminder of the magic that happens when music, lyrics, and performance come together in perfect harmony.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for a song that will make you smile, tap your feet, and maybe even dance, “Round and Round” by Perry Como is the perfect choice. Give it a listen, and let the rhythm of romance take you for a spin!
Lyrics
Find a wheel, and it goes round, round, roundAs it skims along with a happy sound As it goes, along the ground, ground, ground ‘Till it leads you to the one you love!Then your love, will hold you round, round, roundAnd your heart’s a song with a brand new sound And your head, goes spinnin’ round, round, round ‘Cause you found what you’ve been dreamin’ of!In the night you see the oval moonGoin’ round and round in tune And the ball of sun in the day Makes a girl and boy wanna say:Find a ring, (find a ring . . .) and put it round, round, roundAnd with ties so strong the two hearts are bound Put it on, (put it on . . .) the one you found, found, found For you kno’ that this is really love! (. . . this is really love!)Find a wheel, (find a wheel . . .) and it goes round, round, roundAs it skims along with a happy sound As it goes, (as it goes . . .) along the ground, ground, ground ‘Till it leads you to the one you love! (. . . to the one you love!)Then your love, (then your love) you’ll hold her round, round, roundAnd your heart’s a song with a brand new sound And your head, (and your head) goes spinning round, round, round ‘Cause you found what you’ve been dreamin’ of! (. . . you’ve been dreamin’ of!)In the night you see the oval moonGoin’ round and round in tune (going round and round!) And the ball of sun in the day Makes a girl and boy wanna say: (wanna say, wanna say!)Find the ring, (find the ring . . .) and put it round, round, roundAnd with ties so strong your two hearts are bound Put it on, the one you found, found, found, For you kno’ that this is really love!Find a ring, put it onFor you kno’ that this is really love Really love . . . really love . . . hmmm!