About the song
“Mona Lisa,” penned by songwriters Ray Evans and Jay Livingston for the 1949 film “Captain Carey, U.S.A.,” has endured as a timeless classic steeped in romantic allure and artistic mystique. The song’s title and lyrics pay homage to the enigmatic portrait painted by Leonardo da Vinci during the Renaissance, capturing the fascination and intrigue surrounding the Mona Lisa’s smile.
Nat King Cole’s rendition of “Mona Lisa,” arranged by Nelson Riddle and backed by Les Baxter and his Orchestra, stands as the definitive version. Originally released as the B-side to “The Greatest Inventor Of Them All” in March 1951, the song unexpectedly skyrocketed to immense popularity, becoming a chart-topping sensation. Cole’s velvety voice and emotive delivery struck a chord with listeners, propelling the song to spend an impressive five weeks at number one on the Billboard singles chart. Its success was bolstered by its induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1992, solidifying its status as a musical masterpiece.
The song’s allure extended beyond Cole’s rendition, inspiring numerous cover versions by a diverse array of artists across genres and decades. Notable interpretations include Elvis Presley’s intimate home recording in 1958, Conway Twitty’s chart-topping UK hit in 1959, and Willie Nelson’s soulful rendition on his 1981 album “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” which soared up the US Country Chart. The song’s timeless appeal also found expression in Andy Williams’ polished version on his 1964 album and Seal’s contemporary take for the soundtrack of the 2003 film “Mona Lisa Smile.”
“Mona Lisa” not only captivated audiences with its haunting melody and evocative lyrics but also became a canvas for diverse musical interpretations, from rockabilly to soul, jazz to pop. Its enduring popularity underscores its status as a cross-generational classic, continually resonating with new audiences drawn to its romantic essence and enduring mystery.
As a testament to its lasting impact, “Mona Lisa” remains a staple in the repertoire of countless artists and continues to evoke the timeless fascination inspired by its namesake portrait, weaving its enchanting spell through the annals of musical history.
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Lyrics
Mona Lisa, Mona Lisa, men have named you
You’re so like the lady with the mystic smile
Is it only ’cause you’re lonely they have blamed you?
For that Mona Lisa strangeness in your smile?
Do you smile to tempt a lover, Mona Lisa?
Or is this your way to hide a broken heart?
Many dreams have been brought to your doorstep
They just lie there and they die there
Are you warm, are you real, Mona Lisa?
Or just a cold and lonely lovely work of art?
Do you smile to tempt a lover, Mona Lisa?
Or is this your way to hide a broken heart?
Many dreams have been brought to your doorstep
They just lie there and they die there
Are you warm, are you real, Mona Lisa?
Or just a cold and lonely lovely work of art?
Mona Lisa, Mona Lisa