About the song
**Bobby Darin: Mack the Knife (1959)**
Bobby Darin’s rendition of “Mack the Knife” is a timeless masterpiece that has captivated audiences for decades. This iconic song, originally composed by Kurt Weill and Bertolt Brecht for the 1928 musical *The Threepenny Opera*, has been reinterpreted countless times, but Darin’s version remains one of the most beloved.
Darin, a charismatic and versatile performer, brought his unique energy and style to the song. His smooth vocals, coupled with his impeccable timing and phrasing, transformed “Mack the Knife” into a sultry and seductive ballad. Darin’s interpretation captured the essence of the character, a notorious criminal who has managed to evade justice through his charm and cunning.
The song’s arrangement is equally impressive. The lush orchestration, featuring strings, woodwinds, and brass, creates a rich and atmospheric backdrop for Darin’s vocals. The rhythmic interplay between the melody and the accompaniment adds to the song’s infectious groove.
One of the most striking aspects of Darin’s performance is his ability to convey the song’s narrative without resorting to overt theatrics. His voice is filled with subtle nuances that hint at the character’s complex psychology. He captures the character’s arrogance, his charm, and his underlying vulnerability.
Darin’s version of “Mack the Knife” has become a classic for a reason. It is a testament to the power of great songwriting, arrangement, and performance. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport listeners to a different time and place, and to evoke a range of emotions. Whether you are a fan of Darin’s music or simply appreciate a well-crafted song, “Mack the Knife” is a must-listen.
Video
Lyrics
Oh, the shark, babe, has such teeth, dear
And it shows them pearly white
Just a jackknife has old MacHeath, babe
And he keeps it, ah, out of sight
You know when that shark bites with his teeth, babe
Scarlet billows start to spread
Fancy gloves, oh, wears old MacHeath, babe
So there’s never, never a trace of red
Now on the sidewalk, huh, huh, whoo sunny morning, un huh
Lies a body just oozin’ life, eek
And someone’s sneakin’ ’round the corner
Could that someone be Mack the Knife?
There’s a tugboat, huh, huh, down by the river don’tcha know
Where a cement bag’s just a-drooppin’ on down
Oh, that cement is just, it’s there for the weight, dear
Five’ll get ya ten, old Macky’s back in town
Now did ya hear ’bout Louie Miller? He disappeared, babe
After drawin’ out all his hard-earned cash
And now MacHeath spends just like a sailor
Could it be our boy’s done somethin’ rash?
Now Jenny Diver, ho, ho, yeah, Sukey Tawdry
Ooh, Miss Lotte Lenya and old Lucy Brown
Oh, the line forms on the right, babe
Now that Macky’s back in town
I said Jenny Diver, whoa, Sukey Tawdry
Look out to Miss Lotte Lenya and old Lucy Brown
Yes, that line forms on the right, babe
Now that Macky’s back in town
Look out, old Macky’s back