Johnny Mathis is one of the most renowned singers in American history. His music has stood the test of time, with fans of all ages still enjoying his songs today. One of his most iconic songs is “A Certain Smile,” which was originally released in 1958. The song was featured in the movie of the same name, and it quickly became a hit, reaching Number Four on the Billboard charts.
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But what is the song actually about? Mathis’s voice is so mesmerizing that it can be difficult to focus on the lyrics. However, if you take a closer look, you’ll see that the song is about the beauty and intricacies of love.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of “A Certain Smile” tell the story of a man who has fallen in love with a woman who has captured his heart. He describes the amazing feeling he gets when he sees her smile, and how he feels a certain way when he is with her.
The chorus of the song is particularly moving:
“A certain smile, a certain face
Can lead an unsuspecting heart
On a merry chase
A fleeting glance can say
So many lovely things”
The lyrics of the song are poetic and beautiful, and they capture the essence of love in a way that few other songs do.
The Message
The message of “A Certain Smile” is that love is a powerful force that can make us feel incredible things. When we fall in love, we are inspired to do amazing things, and we feel a sense of fulfillment that is hard to describe.
The song is a celebration of the power of love, and it is a reminder to all of us that love is one of the most beautiful things in the world.
FAQs
What inspired Johnny Mathis to write “A Certain Smile”?
Mathis did not write “A Certain Smile.” The song was actually written by Paul Francis Webster and Sammy Fain.
What movie was “A Certain Smile” featured in?
The song was featured in the movie “A Certain Smile”, which was released in 1958. This romantic drama starred Rossano Brazzi and Joan Fontaine.
How did “A Certain Smile” perform on the charts?
“A Certain Smile” was a massive hit in 1958. It reached Number Four on the Billboard Hot 100, and it remained on the charts for 14 weeks.
What other songs is Johnny Mathis known for?
Johnny Mathis is known for many popular songs, including “Chances Are,” “Misty,” and “It’s Not for Me to Say.” He has sold over 100 million records worldwide.
Has “A Certain Smile” been covered by other artists?
Yes, “A Certain Smile” has been covered by many other artists over the years. Some of the most notable covers include versions by Françoise Hardy, Astrud Gilberto, and Sarah Vaughan.
Was “A Certain Smile” nominated for any awards?
No, “A Certain Smile” was not nominated for any major music awards.
What is the meaning of the phrase “a certain smile”?
The phrase “a certain smile” is used to describe a very specific type of smile. It is a smile that is particularly captivating, and it can have a profound effect on the person who sees it.
What is the tempo of “A Certain Smile”?
The tempo of “A Certain Smile” is moderate, with a time signature of 4/4.
What instruments are used in “A Certain Smile”?
The song features a full orchestra, including strings, brass, and woodwinds. The instrumentation is lush and rich, and it provides a perfect backdrop for Mathis’s vocals.
What is the overall mood of “A Certain Smile”?
The overall mood of “A Certain Smile” is romantic and dreamy. The song is filled with beautiful imagery and poetic lyrics, and it captures the essence of falling in love.
What is the structure of “A Certain Smile”?
The song has a traditional verse-chorus structure. The verses describe the man’s feelings of love and his admiration for the woman. The chorus celebrates the power of love and the beauty of a simple smile.
What vocal techniques does Johnny Mathis use in “A Certain Smile”?
Mathis’s voice is known for its smooth, silky quality. In “A Certain Smile,” he uses a lot of vibrato to give the song a dreamy, romantic feel.
What is the meaning behind the line “A fleeting glance can say so many lovely things”?
The line “A fleeting glance can say so many lovely things” is a reflection of the power of nonverbal communication. The man is saying that even a brief look from the woman he loves can convey so much to him.
Why is “A Certain Smile” considered a classic?
“A Certain Smile” is considered a classic because it captures the essence of falling in love in a way that is both timeless and universal. The song’s beautiful lyrics and lush orchestration make it a masterpiece of romantic music.
