Makin' Whoopee!
Nelson Riddle Lyrics

The lyrics to Nelson Riddle's song Makin' Whoopee! capture the romantic optimism of newlyweds, as well as the common theme of the societal expectation of marriage and the sacrifices involved. The opening lines, "Another bride, another June / Another sunny honeymoon," indicate that this isn't the first time the couple has gone through this, but society's expectations are such that they must repeat the ritual of marriage to remain socially acceptable. The lyrics suggest the man is eager but nervous about consummating the relationship as he's taught to believe he must. However, there's a hint of foreshadowing in this joyous song as he repeatedly says he's willing to do whatever it takes to make his wife happy, even wash dishes and sew baby clothes. The song suggests that marriage is, in a way, like a business deal or contract in which both partners have to give something to gain something.

Riddle's use of imagery in the lines "Picture a little love nest, down where the roses cling / Picture the same sweet love nest, and think what a year can bring" is significant. He compares the newlywed's home to a love nest, in which the roses cling, indicating that despite their love, the relationship will be tangled and thorny. The partnership will endure the trials and triumphs of a typical year together. The song's conclusion that "that's what you get folks for makin' whoopee" is almost like a warning about romanticizing an institution in which sacrifices are necessary for lasting relationships.