Bing Crosby

Lyrics

[Chorus: Bing Crosby & Chorus]
Would you like to swing on a star
Carry moonbeams home in a jar
And be better off than you are (Ooo)
Or would you rather be a mule?

[Verse 1: Bing Crosby & Chorus]
A mule is an animal with long funny ears
He kicks up at anything he hears
His back is brawny but his brain is weak
He's just plain stupid with a stubborn streak
And by the way, if you hate to go to school
You may grow up to be a mule

[Chorus 2: Bing Crosby & Chorus]
Or would you like to swing on a star
Carry moonbeams home in a jar
And be better off than you are, doo doo
Or would you rather be a pig?

[Verse 2: Bing Crosby & Chorus]
A pig is an animal with dirt on his face
His shoes are a terrible disgrace
He has no manners when he eats his food
He's fat and lazy and extremely rude
But if you don't care a feather or a fig
You may grow up to be a pig
[Chorus 3: Bing Crosby & Chorus]
Or would you like to swing on a star
Carry moonbeams home in a jar
And be better off than you are
Or would you rather be a fish?

[Verse 3: Bing Crosby & Chorus]
A fish won't do anything, but swim in a brook
He can't write his name or read a book
To fool the people is his only thought
And though he's slippery, he still gets caught
But then if that sort of life is what you wish
You may grow up to be a fish

A new kind of jumped up slippery fish

[Outro: Bing Crosby & Chorus]
And all the monkeys aren't in the zoo
Everyday you'll meet quite a few
So you see it's all up to you (Ooo)
You can be better than you are (Ooo)
You could be swingin' on a star

Doo doo doo doo doo
Doo doo doo doo doo, doo dooEmbed

The song Swinging On a Star is one of the classics from the golden age of Hollywood music that has stood the test of time and remained popular even after all these years. Written for the Oscar-winning 1944 film Going My Way, this song has become an iconic tune that is still loved by music enthusiasts all around the world.

About Swinging On a Star

The song Swinging On a Star was composed by Johnny Burke and Jimmy Van Heusen specifically for the film Going My Way, which starred Bing Crosby and was released in 1944. The song is known for its catchy melody, exquisite lyrics, and the smooth vocals of Bing Crosby.

The song starts with the famous line, "Would you like to swing on a star, carry moonbeams home in a jar" which has since become iconic in American popular culture. The song went on to become Crosby's fifth number one hit song on the Billboard charts, staying on the charts for 17 weeks out of which 9 weeks were at number one.

The song Swinging On a Star, won the Oscar for Best Original Song at the 1945 Academy Awards, which was a testament to the song's popularity and impact on American culture.

The Music Style and Elements of Swinging On a Star

The song Swinging On a Star is a classic example of the swing music genre that was popular during the 1930s and 1940s. The song features the enchanting vocals of Bing Crosby, who was known for his laid-back style that was perfect for this kind of music. The melody features a happy-go-lucky feel that sets the tone for the delightful lyrics that follow.

The song is not only known for its melody and lyrics, but also the vocal stylings of the Williams Brothers Quartet, who provided the backup vocals in this song. Their harmonies add a warm and inviting element to the song, which complements Crosby's vocals perfectly. The arrangement by John Scott Trotter & His Orchestra is top-notch, elevating the song to new heights.

The Significance of Swinging On a Star

The song Swinging On a Star has become a cultural phenomenon that has transcended generations. The song's lyrics have been referenced several times in popular culture, from movies to TV shows and even in the naming of commercial products.

The song has been covered by several artists over the years, including Frank Sinatra, Perry Como, and Rosemary Clooney. Each artist has put their own twist on the song, but the original version by Bing Crosby remains the most beloved and the one that resonates the most with audiences.

The song Swinging On a Star is a lasting tribute to the golden age of Hollywood music, an era when swing was king and the stars of that era dazzled audiences with their charm, charisma, and undeniable talent.

Conclusion

Swinging On a Star is a classic song that has stood the test of time and remained popular even after all these years. The song's catchy melody, exquisite lyrics, and the smooth vocals of Bing Crosby make it a masterpiece of the swing music genre. The song is a testament to the golden age of Hollywood music and the talent that the era produced. If you're a music enthusiast looking to explore the classic tunes of yesteryears, Swinging On a Star is a must-listen song that will leave you humming its tune for days on end.

• Release Date: 1944
• Artist: Bing Crosby