He was born in Hamburg, Germany, and studied at the School of Music there. A multi-instrumentalist, he was hired by Hans Busch to play with his orchestra before serving as a bandsman in the German Navy during World War II. He later formed his own big band, toured with them, then worked as an arranger and producer, making hit records with Freddy Quinn and Ivo Robic. In 1961, he hired The Beatles to back Tony Sheridan on "My Bonnie (Lies Over the Ocean)," "When the Saints Go Marching In," "Ain't She Sweet" and "Cry for a Shadow," in a session for Polydor. These turned out to be the Beatles' first commercial recordings. When Beatles manager Brian Epstein asked Kaempfert about further promoting The Beatles, Kaempfert informed Epstein that the company was only interested in The Beatles as Tony Sheridan's backup group. (It also turned out British Decca executive Dick Rowe turned them down in favor of local beat combo Brian Poole and the Tremeloes.) He then released The Beatles from their contract with Polydor.
The Sheik of Araby
Bert Kaempfert Lyrics
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Your love belongs to me.
At night when you're asleep
Into your tent I'll creep.
The stars that shine above,
Will light our way to love.
You'll rule this land with me;
The lyrics of this song, "The Sheik of Araby," tells the story of a powerful man from Araby who claims the love of another person. He sees himself as the ruler of the land, and that includes the person's heart. The Sheik promises to be with them through thick and thin, even sneaking into their tent at night. The lyrics are quite poetic, painting a picture of a dreamy, Arabian nights fantasy.
The song was first recorded in 1921 and has become a staple in jazz repertoire. The tune was reportedly composed by Harry B. Smith, Francis Wheeler, and Ted Snyder. The song has a storied history, with many notable artists performing it over the years, including Louis Armstrong, Fats Waller, and Benny Goodman. The song has also been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials.
Line by Line Meaning
I'm the Sheik of Araby
I am a powerful and wealthy ruler from Araby.
Your love belongs to me.
Your love and affection are mine, and I have complete control over them.
At night when you're asleep
Under the cover of darkness, when you are vulnerable and unaware, I will make my move.
Into your tent I'll creep.
I will enter your intimate space without your consent, invading your privacy and personal boundaries.
The stars that shine above,
The celestial bodies will light our path as we embark on this journey together.
Will light our way to love.
We will find love through this journey, despite any obstacles that may come our way.
You'll rule this land with me;
Together, we will lead and exert our power over this land, with you as my subordinate and partner in governing.
Lyrics © HARRY B. SMITH COPYRIGHTS, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Ted Snyder, Harry B. Smith, Francis Wheeler
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