Irving Berlin (11 May 1888 – 22 September 1989), born Israel Isidore Baline… Read Full Bio ↴Irving Berlin (11 May 1888 – 22 September 1989), born Israel Isidore Baline, in Tyumen, Russia (according to other sources possibly Mogilev, now Belarus), was an American composer and lyricist. He was one of the most prodigious and famous American songwriters in history.

Berlin, who was Jewish, was one of the few Tin Pan Alley/Broadway songwriters who wrote both lyrics and music for his songs. Although he never learned to read music beyond a rudimentary level, he composed over 3,000 songs. Many of his songs, including "God Bless America", "White Christmas", "Alexander's Ragtime Band", and "There's No Business Like Show Business," left an indelible mark on American music and culture. He produced 17 film scores and 21 Broadway scores, in addition to his individual songs.

Let's Face the Music and Dance
Irving Berlin Lyrics

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There may be trouble ahead
But while there's moonlight
And music and love and romance
Let's face the music and dance

Before the fiddlers have fled
Before they ask us to pay the bill
And while we still have the chance

Let's face the music and dance

Soon, we'll be without the moon
Humming a different tune and then
There may be tear drops to shed
So while there's moonlight
And music and love and romance
Let's face the music and dance
Let's face the music and dance

Soon, we'll be without the moon
Humming a different tune and then
There may be tear drops to shed
So while there's moonlight
And music and love and romance

Let's face the music and dance
Let's face the music and dance

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Let's Face the Music and Dance communicate a message of perseverance and resilience in the face of difficult times. The first line, "There may be trouble ahead," sets the stage for obstacles that may arise in the future, but the singer encourages the listener to continue to embrace the present moment, even if it's only temporary. This is underscored by the references to moonlight, music, love, and romance, creating a feeling of escapism and emphasizing the importance of living in the moment.

As the song continues, the urgency of the situation grows, with the singer advising the listener to act quickly ("Before the fiddlers have fled") and take advantage of the remaining opportunities for joy and pleasure. The line "Before they ask us to pay the bill" could be interpreted to mean that responsibility or consequences may come at any moment, so we should enjoy ourselves while we still can.

The lyrics take a more melancholy turn in the final verse, as the singer warns that the good times will not last forever. The imagery of "humming a different tune" and "tear drops to shed" suggest a stark contrast to the current moment, providing a bittersweet reminder that all good things must come to an end. However, the song is ultimately one of hope and determination to make the most of life's pleasures in the face of adversity.

Line by Line Meaning

There may be trouble ahead
While the future may hold difficulties

But while there's moonlight
In this moment of celestial illumination

And music and love and romance
During an enchanting time together

Let's face the music and dance
Let's confront challenges head-on and enjoy life

Before the fiddlers have fled
Act quickly before the musicians depart

Before they ask us to pay the bill
Before the responsibility becomes our burden

And while we still have the chance
While we still can take advantage of the opportunity

Soon, we'll be without the moon
Before long, there will be no more light

Humming a different tune and then
Our circumstances will be altered

There may be tear drops to shed
We might face sorrow and hardship

So while there's moonlight
While we have this chance to feel happy