About the song
In the realm of American musical theater, few songs have managed to capture the hearts of audiences as effortlessly as “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes.” Written by the incomparable Jerome Kern and Otto Harbach for the 1933 musical comedy Roberta, this show tune has become an iconic standard, its haunting melody and poignant lyrics weaving a spell that continues to captivate listeners to this day.
The song’s origins date back to the 1927 musical Show Boat, where it was initially composed as a tap dance number. However, it was ultimately rejected, only to be rediscovered and reworked as a march for a radio series theme tune in 1932. Its eventual inclusion in Roberta marked a turning point in the song’s history, as it was first performed by Tamara Drasin on Broadway.
The song’s first recorded performance was by Gertrude Niesen, who released it on October 13, 1933, with orchestral direction from Ray Sinatra, Frank Sinatra’s second cousin. Niesen’s rendition of the song was a commercial success, and it has since been covered by numerous artists, including the legendary Platters, who took the song to number one on the charts in 1959.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its timeless lyrics, which speak to the universal human experience of love and longing. The line “When your heart’s on fire, smoke gets in your eyes” is a poignant reminder of the all-consuming nature of passion, and the way in which it can cloud our judgment and lead us astray. The song’s melody is equally memorable, with its soaring strings and lilting rhythm creating a sense of longing and yearning that is impossible to resist.
In addition to its numerous recordings, “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” has also been featured in several films and television shows, including the 1952 remake of Roberta, Lovely to Look At, in which it was performed by Kathryn Grayson. The song’s versatility has also made it a popular choice for weddings and other romantic occasions, where its sentimental lyrics and beautiful melody provide the perfect backdrop for a special moment.
In conclusion, “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” is a timeless show tune that has captured the hearts of audiences for generations. Its haunting melody, poignant lyrics, and enduring appeal have made it a beloved classic, and its influence can be heard in countless other songs and musicals. Whether you’re a fan of classic show tunes or simply looking for a song to capture the essence of romance and longing, “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” is a must-listen, a true masterpiece of American musical theater.
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Lyrics
They asked me how I knew my true love was true
Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh, I, of course replied
“Something here inside cannot be denied”
(Do-do-do, do-do-do, do-do-do, whoa)
They said, “Someday, you’ll find all who love are blind
Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh, when your heart’s on fire
You must realize smoke gets in your eyes”
So, I chaffed them, and I gaily laughed
To think they could doubt my love
Yet, today, my love has flown away
I am without my love (without my love)
Now, laughing friends deride tears I cannot hide
Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh, so I smile and say
“When a lovely flame dies
Smoke gets in your eyes” (smoke gets in your eyes)
Smoke gets in your eyes