Julie Andrews got her big break when her stepfather introduced her to Val Parnell, whose Moss Empires controlled prominent venues in London. Andrews made her professional solo debut at the London Hippodrome singing the difficult aria "Je Suis Titania" from Mignon as part of a musical revue called "Starlight Roof" on 22 October 1947.
Andrews gained fame at a young age in 1950s Britain by acting and singing on light entertainment radio programmes such as "Educating Archie". She rose to international prominence after starring in Broadway musicals such as My Fair Lady and Camelot, as well as musical films like Mary Poppins (1964) and The Sound of Music (1965).
Andrews had a major revival of her film career in the 2000s, in children's films such as The Princess Diaries (2001), its sequel The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004), and the Shrek animated films (2004-2007). In 2005, Andrews made her debut as a stage director with a revival of The Boy Friend, in which she also made her Broadway acting debut in 1954.
She was married with Blake Edwards in 1965 until his death in 2010.
Stay Awake
Julie Andrews Lyrics
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Don't lie down upon your bed
While the moon drifts in the skies
Stay awake don't close your eyes
Though the world is fast asleep
Though your pillow soft and deep
You're not sleepy as you seem
Stay awake, don't nod and dream
The lyrics to Julie Andrews's song "Stay Awake" are evocative and thoughtful, encouraging listeners to stay alert and present even when surrounded by the languorous atmosphere of nighttime. The first verse implores the listener to avoid succumbing to sleep, instead urging them to remain upright and vigilant. The second verse acknowledges the cozy and comfortable nature of a well-made bed, but insists that the listener is not as drowsy as they may appear. The refrain repeats the overarching message of the song: stay awake, don't nod and dream.
In some ways, the song could be interpreted as a call to mindfulness - a reminder to stay focused on the present moment rather than drifting off into a dream world. At the same time, the lyrics also convey a sense of wonder and appreciation for the mysteries of the night, with specific references to the moon drifting in the sky. Overall, the song seems to celebrate the beauty of being awake and alert, even when the rest of the world is slumbering.
Line by Line Meaning
Stay awake don't rest your head
Don't give in to the comfort of rest and relaxation.
Don't lie down upon your bed
Avoid the temptation to lie down and drift off to sleep.
While the moon drifts in the skies
Even as the moon and night sky may provide a soothing atmosphere.
Stay awake don't close your eyes
Stay alert and vigilant by keeping your eyes open.
Though the world is fast asleep
Despite the fact that others are already asleep and at rest.
Though your pillow soft and deep
Even though the softness and depth of your pillow seem inviting.
You're not sleepy as you seem
Despite appearing sleepy, you must resist the urge to sleep.
Stay awake, don't nod and dream
Remain awake and avoid drifting off into a dream-like state.
Stay awake, don't nod and dream
Reinforcing the importance of staying awake and alert.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Richard M. Sherman, Robert B. Sherman
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind