Summertime
Ella Fitzgerald / Louis Armstrong Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Fish are jumpin' and the cotton is high
Oh, your daddy's rich and your ma is good lookin'
So hush, little baby, don't you cry
One of these mornings you're gonna rise up singing
Yes you'll spread your wings and you'll take to the sky
But 'til that morning, there's nothin' can harm you
Summertime, and the livin' is easy
Fish are jumpin' and the cotton is high
Oh, your daddy's rich and your ma is good lookin'
So hush, little baby, baby don't you cry
Don't you cry
The lyrics of Ella Fitzgerald / Louis Armstrong's Summertime tell the story of a mother comforting her child in the deep south in the midst of summer. The opening lyrics set the tone for the song, describing a relaxed and carefree mood. The mention of fish jumping and cotton being high captures the essence of a bountiful and fertile summer season. The lyrics take a personal turn as the mother reassures her child with the acknowledgement of their privileged background. The references to the father's wealth and the mother's good looks convey a sense of security and comfort to the child.
As the song progresses, the mother's words become more uplifting, assuring the child that they are loved and protected. One of these mornings, the child will rise up singing and take to the sky, but until then, there is no need to worry as the loving parents will always be there. The lyrics convey a sense of optimism and hope, a belief in the power of love and family to conquer all.
Overall, the song Summertime is a poignant and moving tribute to the power of love and familial bonds. The lyrics capture the essence of a carefree and bountiful summer season while also providing a timeless message of hope and reassurance.
Line by Line Meaning
Summertime and the livin' is easy
During the summer months, life is easy and enjoyable.
Fish are jumpin' and the cotton is high
Nature is thriving, and the crops are growing strong.
Oh, your daddy's rich and your ma is good-lookin'
You come from a family with means and attractiveness.
So hush, little baby; don't you cry
Don't worry or fret, everything will be alright.
One of these mornings you're gonna rise up singing
You will wake up feeling happy and fulfilled.
And you'll spread your wings and you'll take to the sky
You will begin to realize your potential and achieve success.
But till that morning, there ain't nothin' can harm you
Until that time, you are safe and secure.
With daddy and mammy standin' by
Your parents will be there to support and protect you.
Lyrics © ACUM Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Dorothy Heyward, Du Bose Heyward, George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind