“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Imagine stepping into a dimly lit jazz club in the late 1950s, the air thick with anticipation. As the band strikes the opening chords of “Come Fly with Me,” Frank Sinatra’s voice invites you on a journey to exotic locales, offering a brief escape from the mundane. This song has since become synonymous with adventure and romance, capturing the spirit of an era eager to explore the world.
About The Composition
- Title: Come Fly with Me
- Composer: Jimmy Van Heusen (music) and Sammy Cahn (lyrics)
- Premiere Date: 1958
- Album: Come Fly with Me
- Genre: Traditional Pop
Background
“Come Fly with Me” was specifically written for Frank Sinatra by the renowned duo Jimmy Van Heusen and Sammy Cahn. Released in 1958 as the title track of Sinatra’s album, the song paints vivid images of adventures in far-off places like Bombay, Peru, and Acapulco Bay. This was during the dawn of the Jet Age, a time when air travel was becoming more accessible, fueling the public’s imagination and desire for exploration. The song set the thematic tone for the entire album, which celebrated the excitement of global travel.
Musical Style
The song is a quintessential example of traditional pop, featuring a swinging rhythm and lush orchestration. Billy May’s arrangement complements Sinatra’s smooth vocals, creating an uplifting and carefree atmosphere. The use of brass instruments adds a bright, jazzy feel, while the steady rhythm section keeps the momentum, mirroring the sensation of flight and adventure.
Lyrics
Sammy Cahn’s lyrics are rich with imagery, inviting listeners to join a whimsical journey to exotic destinations. Lines like “There’s a bar in far Bombay” and “Llama land, there’s a one-man band” evoke a sense of wanderlust and romantic escapism. The lyrics align seamlessly with the music, enhancing the overall theme of adventure and the allure of the unknown.
Performance History
“Come Fly with Me” quickly became a staple in Sinatra’s live performances, showcasing his charismatic delivery and connection with the audience. Notably, he performed it as a duet with Luis Miguel on his 1994 album “Duets II,” marking Miguel’s only commercially released English-language song. The song’s enduring appeal has led to numerous covers by artists across various genres, each bringing their unique interpretation to this classic.
Cultural Impact
The song’s influence extends beyond music, featuring prominently in films like “Catch Me If You Can” (2002) and “Doctor Sleep” (2019), as well as television series such as “PanAm” (2011). Its association with the glamour of air travel and the spirit of adventure has made it a cultural touchstone, often used to evoke a sense of nostalgia and sophistication.
Legacy
Decades after its release, “Come Fly with Me” remains a beloved standard, symbolizing the excitement of exploration and the romanticism of the Jet Age. Its timeless appeal continues to resonate with audiences, inspiring new generations to dream of far-off places and adventures.
Conclusion
“Come Fly with Me” is more than just a song; it’s an invitation to embrace adventure and the unknown. Its enduring charm lies in its ability to transport listeners to a world of possibilities. To fully appreciate its magic, I recommend listening to Sinatra’s original recording, as well as Michael Bublé’s 2003 rendition, which offers a contemporary take on this classic.
Video
Lyrics
Come fly with me, let’s fly, let’s fly away
If you can use some exotic booze, there’s a bar in far Bombay
Come on and fly with me, let’s fly, let’s fly away
Come fly with me, let’s float down to Peru
In llama land, there’s a one man band
And he’ll toot his flute for you
Come on fly with me, let’s take off in the blue
Once I get you up there, where the air is rarefied
We’ll just glide, starry-eyed
Once I get you up there, I’ll be holding you so near
You may hear all angels cheer because we’re together
Weather wise, it’s such a lovely day
Just say the words and we’ll beat the birds down to Acapulco Bay
It’s perfect for a flying honeymoon, they say
Come fly with me, let’s fly, let’s fly away
Once I get you up there, where the air is rarefied
We’ll just glide, starry-eyed
Once I get you up there, I’ll be holding you so very near
You might even hear a whole gang cheers just because we’re together
Weather wise, it’s such a coo-coo day
You just say those words and we’ll take our birds down to Acapulco Bay
It’s so perfect for a flying honeymoon, oh, babe
Come fly with me, let’s fly, let’s fly
Pack up, let’s fly away
And don’t tell yo’ mama