By Arthur Johnston & Sam Coslow1934
A mellow classic from the Big Band era, this jazzy tune was introduced in the 1934 film Murder at the Vanities, in which it was sung by Carl Brisson. It would soon after become on of the Duke Ellington band's most recognizable numbers. It's lyric is a celebration of the repeal of Prohibition which occured the previous year.
Lyrics:
In some secluded rendezvous
That overlooks the avenue
With someone sharing a delightful chat
Of this and that
And cocktails for two
As we enjoy a cigarette
To some exquisite chansonnette
Two hands are sure to slyly meet beneath
A serviette
With cocktails for two
My head may go reeling
But my heart will be obedient
With intoxicating kisses
For the principal ingredient
Most any afternoon at five
We'll be so glad we're both alive
Then maybe fortune will complete her plan
That all began
With cocktails for two
Recorded By:
Duke Ellington
Spike Jones
Tommy Dorsey
Bing Crosby
Billy May
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2 comments:
I don't think this song was intended to be played uptempo (as done by Tommy Dorsey and his orchestra) or for laughs (as done to hilarious perfection by Spike Jones and his unindicted co-conspirators: imagine Ethel Merman belting "Speak Low").
Nowadays, I'd sing "As we enjoy a vinaigrette . . ." That is, if I could get through this song with a straight face.
It's become a cult classic, for sure.
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