Liza Minnelli

Lyrics

5 ContributorsCabaret LyricsWhat good is sitting alone in your room?
Come hear the music play
Life is a cabaret, old chum
Come to the Cabaret

Put down the knitting, the book and the broom
It's time for a holiday
Life is a cabaret, old chum
Come to the Cabaret

Come taste the wine
Come hear the band
Come blow a horn, start celebrating
Right this way, your table's waiting

What good's permitting some prophet of doom
To wipe every smile away
Life is a cabaret, old chum
So come to the Cabaret!

I used to have a girlfriend known as Elsie
With whom I shared four sordid rooms in Chelsea
She wasn't what you'd call a blushing flower...
As a matter of fact, she rented by the hour

The day she died the neighbors came to snicker:
"Well, that's what comes from too much pills and liquor!"
But when I saw her laid out like a Queen
She was the happiest corpse I'd ever seen
You might also likeI think of Elsie to this very day
I remember how she'd turn to me and say
"What good is sitting all alone in your room?
Come hear the music play
Life is a cabaret, old chum
Come to the Cabaret!"

And as for me, and as for me
I made my mind up back in Chelsea
When I go
I'm going like Elsie

Start by admitting from cradle to tomb
It isn't that long a stay
Life is a cabaret, old chum
It's only a cabaret, old chum
And I love a cabaret!Embed

Are you ready for a trip back in time to the glamorous and dark world of the Weimar era? Well, buckle up because we're about to dive into one of the most iconic songs from that period – "Cabaret" by the talented Liza Minnelli. This song not only captivates audiences with its infectious rhythm and soul-stirring lyrics, but it also serves as the title track and finale of the hit movie, "Cabaret." So, let's take a closer look at this timeless classic and discover why it continues to enthrall audiences even after all these years.

About Cabaret

In the film "Cabaret," Liza Minnelli portrays the character Sally Bowles, a vivacious and aspiring performer in 1930s Germany. As the movie progresses, we witness the political turmoil brewing in the background – the rise of the Nazi regime. "Cabaret" not only serves as the soundtrack to this mesmerizing tale but also acts as a poignant embodiment of the contrasting choices made by the two main characters.

In the movie's climactic scene, we find ourselves at the Kit Kat Klub, a cabaret venue frequented by the characters. The song "Cabaret" is performed by Sally herself, just before the pivotal moment when Brian, played by Michael York, decides to leave Germany to escape the impending danger. Sally, however, chooses to remain behind, driven by her show business dreams and her ultimately self-destructive impulses.

The lyrics of "Cabaret" perfectly encapsulate the inner conflict experienced by Sally. Lines like "What good is sitting alone in your room? / Come hear the music play" mirror her desire to embrace life, fame, and escape the harsh reality outside the club doors. With each verse, the intensity of the song builds, drawing us deeper into Sally's world and her complicated emotional state.

The music itself is a splendid fusion of cabaret, jazz, and pop, brilliantly showcasing the talents of Liza Minnelli. Her captivating vocals, filled with raw emotion, effortlessly take center stage. As the song progresses, the tempo quickens, and the orchestra swells, creating a sense of urgency and desperation.

"Cabaret" is a masterclass in storytelling through song, providing a window into a bygone era. It invites us to reflect on the choices we make and the allure of pursuing our dreams, even in the face of impending darkness. Sally's decision to stay in the cabaret world ultimately symbolizes the struggle between individual desires and the political climate of the time.

Very few songs have the ability to transport us to a different time and place quite like "Cabaret" does. Whether you're a fan of musicals, a history buff, or simply appreciate the beauty of a well-crafted song, Liza Minnelli's rendition of "Cabaret" is sure to captivate your heart and soul. So, dim the lights, grab your seat, and prepare to be swept off your feet by one of the greatest musical performances in cinematic history.

In Closing

As "Cabaret" fades out, we are left with a bittersweet taste in our mouths, a profound understanding of the choices made by the characters, and a lingering appreciation for the power of music to convey complex emotions. Liza Minnelli's unforgettable performance in this unforgettable song continues to resonate with audiences, reminding us of the enduring allure of the cabaret world, and the timeless appeal of chasing our dreams even in the face of adversity.

• Release Date: None
• Artist: Liza Minnelli