'Deed I Do
Billie Holiday w/Ray Ellis and His Orchestra Lyrics


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Do I want you?
Oh, my, do I
Honey, 'deed I do

Do I need you?
Oh, my, do I
Honey, 'deed I do
I'm glad that I'm the one who found you
That's why I'm always hangin' around you

Do I love you?
Oh, my, do I
Honey, 'deed I do

I'm glad that I'm the one who found you
That's why I'm always hangin' around you

Do I love you?
Oh, my, do I
Honey, 'deed I do




Honey, 'deed I do
Honey, 'deed I do

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "Deed I Do" by Billie Holiday w/ Ray Ellis and His Orchestra express the intense love and desire the singer has for their significant other. The repetition of "Do I" followed by "Honey, deed I do" emphasizes the overwhelming feelings of love and devotion. The lyrics also suggest that the singer is grateful and lucky to have found their partner, which is why they are always by their side. The instrumental breaks between the verses allow the listener to fully appreciate the romantic mood of the song.


The song's lyrics were written by Fred Rose and the music was composed by Walter Hirsch. It was first recorded by singer and actress, Ruth Etting in 1926, and then covered by various artists over the years. Billie Holiday's version was released in 1958 as part of her album, "Lady in Satin". The song became one of her most popular and beloved tracks, showcasing her signature sultry and soulful voice.


Line by Line Meaning

Do I want you?
Do I desire your affection and companionship?


Oh my! Do I!
Absolutely, without a doubt.


Honey, deed I do!
Indeed, I do want you.


Do I need you?
Do I require your presence and love?


Oh my! Do I!
Unequivocally.


Honey, deed I do!
Certainly, I need you.


I'm glad that I'm the one who found you,
I am pleased that I am the one who discovered you, and not someone else.


That's why I'm always hangin' around you . . .
This explains why I am constantly in your company.


Do I love you?
Do I have deep affection and admiration for you?


Oh my! Do I!
Without a shadow of a doubt.


Honey, deed I do!
Yes, I love you intensely and wholeheartedly.


(instrumental repeat of verse)
A musical interlude with no lyrics.


Hmm! Honey, deed I do!
An expression of affirmation that acknowledges the previous statements.


I'm glad that I'm the one who found you,
A repetition of a previous line.


That's why I'm always hangin' around you . . .
A repetition of a previous line.


Oh! Do I love you?
An exclamation that emphasizes the intensity of the previous statement.


Oh my! Do I!
A repetition of a previous line with added emphasis.


Honey, deed I do!
A final assurance that confirms the love and affection that the singer has for the person being addressed.


Ah Deed I Do!
A catchphrase that serves as the title of the song, affirming the sincerity and depth of the singer's love.




Lyrics © Kanjian Music, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Fred Rose, Walter Hirsch

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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