Ethel Agnes Zimmerman was born in the third floor bedroom of her grandmother's house at 359 4th Avenue in Astoria, Queens. Growing up near Famous Players-Lasky's Astoria Studios, young Ethel often watched the silent movie stars drive by in their massive cars, and she dreamed of joining their ranks one day. Her powerful voice won attention when her family worshipped at Holy Redeemer Episcopal Church, and she began making local concert appearances. She also frequently attended vaudeville performances at The Palace Theater in Manhattan, watching great stars like Fanny Brice and Sophie Tucker.
Ethel's parents Edward (an accountant) and Agnes (a school teacher) understood Ethel's love of singing, but they did not see show business as a reliable career choice for a woman. They insisted that she get a solid education with thorough training in secretarial skills, so she would have something to fall back on if her dreams of stardom didn't pan out. After Ethel graduating William Cullen Bryant High School, she earned a respectable $28 a week as a stenographer for the owner of a local factory. She picked up extra money by singing at private parties and in night clubs. Ethel was so efficient that her indulgent boss (who only came in two days a week) overlooked her taking nap breaks at the office after late night performances. When Ethel's gigs multiplied, her parents accepted the inevitable and allowed her to give up the day job and sing full-time.
I Got the Sun in the Morning
Ethel Merman Lyrics
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What do I find? The things I got will keep me satisfied
Checking up on what I have and what I haven't
What do I find? A healthy balance on the credit side
Got no diamonds, got no pearls
Still I think I'm a lucky girl
I've got the sun in the morning and the moon at night
Still I'm happy with what I've got
I've got the sun in the morning and the moon at night
Sunshine gives me a lovely day
Moonlight gives me the Milky Way
Got no cheque books, got no banks
Still I'd like to express my thanks
I've got the sun in the morning and the moon at night
And with the sun in the morning and the moon in the evening
I'm all right
De-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo
De-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo
Sunshine gives me a lovely day
Moonlight gives me the Milky Way
Got no cheque books, got no banks
Still I'd like to express my thanks
I've got the sun in the morning and the moon at night
And with the sun in the morning, moon in the evening
I'm doing all right
Doing all right
Doing all right
I'm doing all right
The lyrics of Ethel Merman's song "I Got the Sun in the Morning" are a reflection on the singer's perspective on life and happiness. The first verse talks about taking stock of what she has and what she doesn't have, but ultimately, she realizes that the things she has are enough to keep her satisfied. The second verse continues this theme, comparing her lack of material possessions to the happiness she derives from the sun in the morning and the moon at night. The chorus repeats this sentiment, emphasizing the beauty and positivity that comes from these natural phenomena.
The lyrics are a celebration of life's simple pleasures, and Merman's jubilant delivery reinforces this message. She sings with an infectious energy and enthusiasm that makes it easy to believe in her joy. The use of "de-doo-doo-doo" in the middle of the song adds to the playfulness and lightness of the tune.
Overall, the lyrics of "I Got the Sun in the Morning" are a testament to the idea that true happiness comes not from material possessions but from the beauty of the world around us. It's a message that still resonates today, and one that reminds us to appreciate the little things in life.
Line by Line Meaning
Taking stock of what I have and what I haven't
Evaluating my possessions and acknowledging what I don't have
What do I find? The things I got will keep me satisfied
I'm content with what I own
Checking up on what I have and what I haven't
Reassessing my belongings
What do I find? A healthy balance on the credit side
I have a positive net worth
Got no diamonds, got no pearls
I don't have expensive jewelry
Still I think I'm a lucky girl
However, I am grateful for what I do have.
I've got the sun in the morning and the moon at night
I have the beauty of nature to appreciate
Got no mansion, got no yacht
I don't have luxurious possessions
Still I'm happy with what I've got
Nonetheless, I'm satisfied with what I do own
Sunshine gives me a lovely day
I enjoy the warmth and brightness of the sun
Moonlight gives me the Milky Way
I take pleasure in seeing the stars in the nighttime sky
Got no cheque books, got no banks
I don't have a lot of money
Still I'd like to express my thanks
Nevertheless, I appreciate what I do have
And with the sun in the morning and the moon in the evening
Both night and day make me content
I'm all right
I'm doing well and I'm not worried.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: Irving Berlin
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind