Como was also very popular in the UK. His chart successes ranged from 1953 to 1974 and included two number one's, his first hit 'Don't Let The Stars Get In Your Eyes' in 1953 and 'Magic Moments' which stayed at the top for 8 weeks in 1958. His other big UK hits were 'Delaware' ( No 3 in 1960), ' It's Impossible' (No 4 in 1971) , 'And I Love You So' (No 3 in 1973), and 'For The Good Times' (No 7 in 1973).
As well as TV and recording success, Perry Como also made a number of films, including ' Something For The Boys' and 'Doll Face' which were released during WW2.
He died in his sleep on 12 May 2001.
Without a Song
Perry Como Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Without a song the road would never bend
When things go wrong a man ain't got a friend
Without a song
That field of corn would never see a plow
That field of corn would be deserted now
A man is born but he's no good no how
Without a song
And I'll get along as long as a song, strong in my soul
I'll never know what makes the rain to fall
I'll never know what makes that grass so tall
I only know there ain't no love at all
Without a song
I've-a got my trouble and woe and, sure as I know, the Jordan will roll
And I'll get along as long as a song, strong in my soul
I'll-a never know what makes that rain to fall
I'll never know what makes the grass so tall
I only know there ain't no love at all
Without a song
The lyrics to Perry Como's song Without a Song speak to the power of music and its ability to lend meaning and joy to life. The opening lines suggest that a day without music would stretch on endlessly, with no relief or change. Similarly, the road of life would feel monotonous and never bend or shift without the beauty and inspiration of melody. When times are tough, the lyrics suggest that music is the ultimate friend, providing comfort and solace. The next set of lines paints a vivid picture of a deserted field without the sound of a song. The lyrics seem to suggest that music brings people and purpose to life. The song then shifts to a more personal story, with the singer acknowledging their own struggles and difficulties. The repetition of the phrase "I got my trouble and woe" underscores this hardship. However, the song also insists that music will provide a way through these challenges, making the Jordan- or the metaphorical river of life- roll along more easily. The final lines speak to the limitations of human understanding- how the rain falls and the grass grows remain mysteries to the singer. But even in the face of this uncertainty, the song insists that music provides the love and meaning needed to make life worth living.
Line by Line Meaning
Without a song the day would never end
Music is what keeps people going through the day and provides a sense of completion in the evening
Without a song the road would never bend
Music gives a sense of direction in life and helps people cope with changes
When things go wrong a man ain't got a friend
During tough times, music can be the only source of comfort and solace
That field of corn would never see a plow
Music brings life and activity to even the most mundane and lifeless places
That field of corn would be deserted now
Without music, there would be no motivation to work and create abundance
A man is born but he's no good no how
Without music, life would be dull and meaningless, stripping people of purpose and value
I got my trouble and woe but, sure as I know, the Jordan will roll
Even during times of hardship, music can provide hope and remind us of the continuity of life and nature
And I'll get along as long as a song, strong in my soul
With music as a constant companion, people can find strength to overcome obstacles and move forward in life
I'll never know what makes the rain to fall
Music has a profound and mysterious effect on the human soul that cannot be easily explained
I'll never know what makes that grass so tall
Just as the secret of life and growth of nature cannot be fully grasped, music too has a hidden power that defies logic
I only know there ain't no love at all
Without music, the world would be devoid of the beauty and expression that comes from love
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Songtrust Ave, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Edward Eliscu, Billy Rose, Vincent Youmans
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Scott Miller
One sensational singer and entertainer for all time to remember !!!
Scott Miller
Perry Como was a fabulous singer and entertainer he really sang this song very well !!!
Peter Chacona
In the summer of 1976....I was lucky enough to be in a group that toured with Perry as his opening act, and his backup singers for 7 weeks across the US.... This was one of my favorite songs to hear him sing....One of the best summers in my life..... A wonderful man, and a first class experience.....God Luv you Perry....cause we do!
Jonathan Arthur
Hey, Pete - I was on that tour with you ...one of the best summers of my life as well. The nicest guy in show business he was called, and it was no act. Humble, funny and generous. Remember the private clubs he took us to in Chicago? That one place was the first time I ate clams on the half shell, egged on by the rest of you. It was also the last time I ever ate clams on the half shell! I also remember in that club there was a clear lucite piano with a guy in white tails playing. I was 21 - what a crazy whirlwind ride that was. All the famous stars we saw backstage, and in Vegas , and the Jerry Lewis Telethon ... I saw Jeannie Kaufman once a few years after the tour, Alan Martin is no longer with us, I don't know anything about anybody else. I hope you're well, old friend! Do you have any pictures from then? That would be a hoot, I only have two - one stage picture with all of us and a polaroid my mom took backstage at Valley Forge Music Faire with Perry and me.
Jonathan Arthur
Sang this on stage with him every night on tour in 1976 in The Ray Charles Singers.
Scott Miller
One of the greatest singers of all time he was wonderful !!!!!
Patte Fowler
I used to hear this song, as a teen, by Como late at night on the radio when I was in bed going to sleep. I loved it! Later, I would sing it to my wonderful daughters when they were growing up. The way he sung it and the words and the melody-well, just beautifully done.
rpd411
The Greatest Singer of All Time!!
John Butler
Absolutely true. None better
Danny Barrett
surely one of the greatest....