My Old Flame
Dinah Washington & Quincy Jones Orchestra Lyrics
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How my thoughts go flashing back again to my old flame
My old flame, my new lovers all seem so tame, for I haven't met a gent
So magnificent or elegant as my old flame
I've met so many who had fascinating ways
A fascinating gaze in their eyes, some who took me up to the skies
But their attempts at love were only imitations of my old flame
Until I discover what became of my old flame
I've met so many who had fascinating ways
A fascinating gaze in their eyes, some who took me up to the skies
But their attempts at love were only imitations of my old flame
I can't even think of his name but I'll never be the same
Until I discover what became of my old flame
In Dinah Washington's classic song "My Old Flame," the singer reminisces about a past lover who still holds a special place in her heart. She begins by admitting that she can't even remember his name, yet she finds herself continuing to think back to their time together. The memory of her old flame seems to eclipse any new love interests she may have, as none of the men she's met since have been as "magnificent or elegant" as he was.
Washington uses vivid imagery to describe the various suitors who have crossed her path since her old flame, noting that while they may have had "fascinating" ways and "fascinating gaze in their eyes," they ultimately pale in comparison to her past love. She laments that their attempts at love were only "imitations" of what she had with her old flame, revealing that she's eager to discover what became of him so that she can finally move on.
Overall, "My Old Flame" captures the bittersweet nostalgia that often accompanies memories of a former love. Even as time passes and new relationships enter the picture, some individuals remain stuck on a past flame who somehow managed to leave an indelible mark on their heart.
Line by Line Meaning
My old flame, I can't even think of his name, but it's funny now and then
I can't remember the name of my old flame, but sometimes it's amusing to recall how the memories flash back.
How my thoughts go flashing back again to my old flame
The memories of my old flame keep coming back to me.
My old flame, my new lovers all seem so tame, for I haven't met a gent
So magnificent or elegant as my old flame
None of my new partners have the charm and sophistication of my old love.
I've met so many who had fascinating ways
A fascinating gaze in their eyes, some who took me up to the skies
But their attempts at love were only imitations of my old flame
I have met many intriguing people, but they all fell short of matching the love and passion of my old flame.
I can't even think of his name, but I'll never be the same
Until I discover what became of my old flame
I may not remember his name, but I will not be at peace until I find out whatever happened to my old flame.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: SAM COSLOW, ARTHUR JOHNSTON
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
mgretche
Bless Dinah and her her matchless voice.........
Susan Crowe
Love you Dinah
Ralph Lauro
like to hear 1950 version
Jade Quest
Love it, but it's not the 1950 recording. This is the later recording, either 1961, or 62. I would like to hear the 1950 recording.
RoundMidnightTV
Paul Charvert You are correct! I've made the changes, thank you very much!
Robert Puglia
her voice on the '50 version is sublime. i prefer the orchestration of this version. she tells it as much as sings it. love it all, especially her later version of "if it's the last thing i do". i mean, wow.
Phillip Payne
Dinah absolutely beautiful here.
Q has the orchestra doing it !
Robert Puglia
way swanky