In part because of his expressive phrasing and graceful interpretation, Astaire was chosen to introduce many now-classic songs, including standards by Cole Porter (example, "Night and Day"), his friend Irving Berlin ("Let's Face the Music and Dance"), Jerome Kern ("The Way You Look Tonight"), Johnny Mercer ("One for My Baby") and George and Ira Gershwin ("They Can't Take That Away from Me").
Fred Astaire is interred at Oakwood Memorial Park, Chatsworth, California, USA, the same cemetery where Ginger Rogers, is located. (http://encyclopaediaoftrivia.blogspot.com/2011/09/fred-astaire.html)
The Wedding Cake Walk
Fred Astaire Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
It's hot stuff, that fluffy dress
From where I sit, I'll admit
She looks a bit sweet
No wonder her Romeo
Begins shoutin' "Hidy-ho!"
As his bride starts to stride
There's a big increase in marriages
Due to a tune, they say
The Wedding Cakewalk
Is the roundelay
When newlyweds in fancy carriages
Leave that reception gay
The Wedding Cakewalk
Sends them on their way
Pasty choirs in tasty churches
Gives it all they've got
Prudish old preachers on their perches
Say, "A-men, it's hot!"
All those bridal suites at Claridge's
Have radios that play
The Wedding Cakewalk
Night and day!
There's a big increase in marriages
Due to a tune, they say
The Wedding Cakewalk
Is the roundelay
When newlyweds in fancy carriages
Leave that reception gay
Oh Wedding Cakewalk
Sends them on their way
Pasty choirs in tasty churches
Give it all they've got
Prudish old preachers on their perches
Say, "A-men, it's hot!"
All those bridal suites at Claridge's
Have radios that play
The Wedding Cakewalk
Night and day!
There's a big increase in marriages
Due to a tune, they say
The Wedding Cakewalk
Is the roundelay
When newlyweds in fancy carriages
Leave that reception gay
Oh Wedding Cakewalk
Sends them on their way
Pasty choirs in tasty churches
Give it all they've got
Prudish old preachers on their perches
Say, "A-men, it's hot!"
All those bridal suites at Claridge's
Have radios that play
The Wedding Cakewalk
Night and day!
The Wedding Cake Walk song by Fred Astaire is a jolly tune that speaks of the joy and celebration that accompany weddings. The first stanza describes the bride's dress as "hot stuff" and sweet. It's clear that the singer is enjoying the view as the bride walks down the aisle to a boogie beat, while her Romeo shouts "Hidy-ho!" The second and third stanzas talk of how the Wedding Cakewalk has increased the number of marriages, and how it's played in hotels like Claridge's all night and day. The third and final stanza refers to the pasty choirs in tasty churches, and the prudish old preachers who say "A-men, it's hot!" The song talks about how the tune has become the roundelay for newlyweds who leave the reception gay, as they head on to their honeymoon in fancy carriages.
In essence, the song suggests that the Wedding Cakewalk is a significant part of weddings and wedding culture. It implies that it is the very sound that sets the mood for celebrants who eventually lead to the union of newlyweds. Notably, the song does not detail how the dance came into existence, but the cultural significance is apparent.
Line by Line Meaning
Well, here comes the bride, no less
The bride is arriving, and she deserves respect and admiration for her special day.
It's hot stuff, that fluffy dress
The dress is elegant and fashionable, but also quite warm and uncomfortable.
From where I sit, I'll admit
I can see the bride clearly and understand the appeal of her appearance.
She looks a bit sweet
The bride is reminiscent of sugary confections, a treat for the eyes and the taste buds.
No wonder her Romeo
The groom is enraptured by his bride, and for good reason.
Begins shoutin' "Hidy-ho!"
The groom is full of energy and enthusiasm, expressing his love and excitement for his bride.
As his bride starts to stride
The bride's confident walk down the aisle is inspiring and impressive.
To a boogie beat
The wedding music is upbeat and lively, adding to the festive atmosphere of the occasion.
There's a big increase in marriages
More people are choosing to get married, likely due to a variety of cultural and societal influences.
Due to a tune, they say
Some people claim that a particular song, the Wedding Cakewalk, is responsible for the increase in marriages.
The Wedding Cakewalk
This song is a popular choice for couples who are marrying or celebrating their nuptials.
Is the roundelay
This tune is a lively and catchy musical piece that inspires dancing and celebration.
When newlyweds in fancy carriages
Couples leaving their wedding receptions in stylish or impressive vehicles are prime subjects for observation and admiration.
Leave that reception gay
Wedding receptions are usually festive and joyful events, with guests and newlyweds alike enjoying themselves.
Sends them on their way
The Wedding Cakewalk adds to the celebratory feeling of the evening, and sends the couple off on a positive note.
Pasty choirs in tasty churches
Churches often feature choir groups that are visually unremarkable, but whose music is pleasing and enjoyable to hear.
Give it all they've got
The singers and musicians take pride in their performance and put forth their best effort.
Prudish old preachers on their perches
Religious leaders can be seen as reserved or conservative, but they are still present at and supportive of weddings.
Say, "A-men, it's hot!"
Even the most stoic clergymen may find themselves enjoying the lively atmosphere of a wedding ceremony.
All those bridal suites at Claridge's
This high-end hotel is known for its luxurious and spacious rooms, which are often used by newlyweds for their honeymoons.
Have radios that play
The hotel staff provides music and entertainment for their guests, ensuring they have a pleasant and comfortable stay.
Night and day!
The Wedding Cakewalk is a constant presence in these luxurious suites, adding to the romantic and celebratory mood of the honeymoon.
Lyrics © Warner/Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: COLE PORTER
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind