Summertime
Platters (the) Lyrics
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Fish are jumping and the cotton is high
Oh oh your daddy's rich and your ma's good looking
So hush little baby don't you cry
One of these mornings you're gonna rise up singing
Then you'll spread your wings
And you'll take to the sky
There's nothing can harm you
With your daddy and your mammy standing by
The Platters' rendition of "Summertime" is a cover of a song that was originally composed by George Gershwin for the 1935 opera "Porgy and Bess." The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a lazy summer day in the southern United States when everything is peaceful and carefree. The opening lines of the song set the scene: "Summertime and the living is easy / Fish are jumping and the cotton is high." The singer tells a baby not to worry because they have wealthy parents who will protect them.
The second verse turns more philosophical, as the singer asserts that someday the baby will "rise up singing" and "take to the sky." However, in the meantime, they are safe and secure with their parents. This verse could be interpreted more broadly as a universal message that all humans are born innocent and protected, but eventually must confront the challenges and uncertainties of life. However, the comforting refrain "Hush little baby don't you cry" reassures the listener that they are not alone in this journey.
Overall, "Summertime" is a classic example of American popular music that combines elements of jazz, blues, and classical music into a catchy and memorable tune. The Platters' version showcases their smooth harmonies and polished production, with a lush orchestral backing that adds to the song's dreamy atmosphere. The song has been covered by many other artists over the years, including Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Janis Joplin, among others.
Line by Line Meaning
Summertime and the living is easy
Summer has arrived and life is carefree and relaxed.
Fish are jumping and the cotton is high
Nature is abundant and thriving with fish jumping and cotton growing tall.
Oh oh your daddy's rich and your ma's good looking
Your parents are fortunate with your father wealthy and your mother attractive.
So hush little baby don't you cry
Don't worry or be upset, everything is fine and there's no need to cry.
One of these mornings you're gonna rise up singing
One day soon you will wake up feeling joyful and start singing out loud.
Then you'll spread your wings
You will have the freedom and ability to pursue your dreams and soar to new heights.
And you'll take to the sky
You will take full advantage of your opportunities and fly high.
But till that morning
Until that day comes.
There's nothing can harm you
No harm can come to you.
With your daddy and your mammy standing by
Your parents are there for you and will protect you from any harm or danger.
Lyrics © SONGS MUSIC PUBLISHING
Written by: DOROTHY HEYWARD, DU BOSE HEYWARD, GEORGE GERSHWIN, IRA GERSHWIN
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind