The Meaning Behind The Song: Them There Eyes by Billie Holiday
Them There Eyes is a popular jazz song originally recorded by Billie Holiday in 1939. The song has since been covered by numerous artists and remains a classic in the jazz genre. It is a light-hearted and catchy tune with a deeper meaning that reflects the complexities of love and the power of perception.
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In Them There Eyes, Billie Holiday sings about the allure of someone’s eyes and the irrevocable effect they have on her. The lyrics cleverly depict the notion that eyes can be windows to the soul, revealing secrets and emotions that words often fail to express. The song captures the feeling of being completely captivated and enchanted by the gaze of another person.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who wrote the song Them There Eyes?
Them There Eyes was written by Maceo Pinkard, Doris Tauber, and William Tracey. Maceo Pinkard was a prolific songwriter and pianist, while Doris Tauber and William Tracey were lyricists. Together, they created this timeless jazz composition that has stood the test of time.
2. What inspired Billie Holiday to record Them There Eyes?
Billie Holiday was known for her soulful interpretations of songs, and Them There Eyes was no exception. The lyrics and melody resonated with her, and she believed in the emotional connection it portrayed. Holiday’s unique voice and emotional delivery added a layer of depth to the song, making it one of her signature performances.
3. Are there any cover versions of Them There Eyes?
Yes, Them There Eyes has been covered by various artists over the years. Some notable covers include renditions by Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, and Anita O’Day. Each artist brings their own flair to the song, showcasing its versatility and timeless appeal.
4. Did Them There Eyes achieve commercial success?
When it was initially released, Them There Eyes did not achieve significant commercial success. However, over time, it gained recognition and popularity, becoming one of Billie Holiday’s most beloved songs and a jazz standard. Its enduring appeal has made it a staple in jazz music history.
5. What makes Them There Eyes a jazz classic?
Them There Eyes exemplifies the essence of jazz music with its swing rhythm and improvisational elements. The song showcases Billie Holiday’s unique vocal stylings and her ability to convey emotions through her voice. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics have made it a beloved and frequently performed jazz classic.
6. What is the significance of the song’s lyrics?
The lyrics of Them There Eyes explore the theme of infatuation and the power of attraction. The song suggests that a person’s eyes can reveal their innermost thoughts and emotions, evoking intense feelings in the observer. It captures the excitement and intoxication of falling in love or being drawn to someone against all logic.
7. How does Them There Eyes reflect Billie Holiday’s artistry?
As one of the most influential jazz singers of all time, Billie Holiday brought a unique vulnerability and authenticity to her performances, and Them There Eyes is no exception. Her heartfelt delivery and emotive phrasing make the song resonate with listeners on a deeper level, highlighting her artistic brilliance.
8. Are there any notable live performances of Them There Eyes?
Billie Holiday performed Them There Eyes numerous times throughout her career, and some of these live performances have been recorded and preserved. These recordings capture the raw energy and intimacy of her live shows, allowing listeners to experience the magic of her interpretations.
9. What other songs by Billie Holiday have a similar style to Them There Eyes?
Billie Holiday had a vast repertoire of songs that showcased her distinctive style. Some songs that have a similar light-hearted and infectious quality to Them There Eyes include “What a Little Moonlight Can Do,” “Fine and Mellow,” and “A Fine Romance.” All these songs highlight her ability to infuse emotion into her performances.
10. Is Them There Eyes still relevant today?
Despite being recorded over eight decades ago, Them There Eyes continues to resonate with audiences today. Its universal theme of attraction and the power of a person’s gaze is timeless and relatable. The song’s popularity and enduring appeal attest to its continued relevance in the world of music.
11. How does Them There Eyes contribute to the legacy of Billie Holiday?
Them There Eyes is just one of the many iconic songs that solidify Billie Holiday’s legacy in the music industry. Her pioneering work in jazz, coupled with her distinctive voice and emotive performances, has made her an enduring figure in music history. Them There Eyes is a testament to her artistry and talent.
12. What impact did Them There Eyes have on the jazz genre?
Them There Eyes, with its captivating melody and heartfelt lyrics, contributed to the evolution and popularity of jazz music. It showcased a side of jazz that emphasized emotion and storytelling, paving the way for future artists to explore the genre’s expressive possibilities. The song’s impact on the jazz genre cannot be understated.
With its infectious melody, Them There Eyes by Billie Holiday continues to captivate audiences and hold a special place in the world of jazz music. Its exploration of love, attraction, and the power of perception make it a timeless classic that will be enjoyed for generations to come.
