Eldridge was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His nickname was Little Jazz. Eldridge played in the bands of Fletcher Henderson, Gene Krupa and Artie Shaw before making records under his own name. He also played in Benny Goodman's and Count Basie's Orchestras, and co-led a band with Coleman Hawkins.
I Can
Roy Eldridge Lyrics
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I've settled revolutions in Spain
The North Pole I have charted, but I can't get
Started with you
Around the golf course I'm under par
And all the movies want me to star
I've got a house, a show place, but I get no
You're so supreme, lyrics I write of you
Scheme, just for a sight of you
Dream, both day and night of you
And what good does it do?
In 1929 I sold short
In England I'm presented at court
But you've got me downhearted, cause I can't get
Started with you
You're so supreme, lyrics I write of you
Scheme, just for a sight of you
Dream, both day and night of you
And what good does it do?
The lyrics of Roy Eldridge and Dizzy Gillespie’s “I Can’t Get Started With You” narrate the singer’s futile attempts to win over the object of his affection. The first verse implies that the singer is a widely-travelled individual, capable of accomplishing great feats. Despite these achievements, he is unable to capture the attention of the person he desires. The second verse further highlights his success in other areas of life, including sports and entertainment, but with no avail. It’s evident that the singer is smitten by this individual, demonstrated by his intense longing for her. The song ultimately conveys the helplessness of the singer, who despite his achievements, feels lost without the affection of his beloved.
Line by Line Meaning
I've flown around the world in a plane
I've traveled to faraway places and seen many wonders, but I still cannot start a relationship with you.
I've settled revolutions in Spain
I've helped bring about political change in a foreign land, but I cannot seem to initiate anything with you.
The North Pole I have charted, but I can't get
Started with you
I have explored the farthest reaches of the planet, yet I am unable to begin a relationship with you.
Around the golf course I'm under par
I am doing exceptionally well in playing golf, but I cannot catch your attention.
And all the movies want me to star
I am a desirable and sought-after actor, but I cannot seem to win your affection.
I've got a house, a show place, but I get no
Place with you
I have a beautiful and impressive home, but I am unable to establish any sort of relationship with you.
You're so supreme, lyrics I write of you
You are the epitome of perfection, and I compose lyrics about how amazing you are.
Scheme, just for a sight of you
I will come up with any plan or idea just to catch a glimpse of you.
Dream, both day and night of you
I dream about you constantly, whether awake or asleep.
And what good does it do?
But all this longing and admiration is pointless if I cannot be with you.
In 1929 I sold short
I have had successes in the past, even when it comes to finance and investments.
In England I'm presented at court
I am respected and recognized even in British high society.
But you've got me downhearted, cause I can't get
Started with you
Despite all my achievements, my inability to begin a relationship with you has left me feeling sad and disheartened.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner/Chappell Music, Inc., Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: IRA GERSHWIN, VERNON DUKE
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@57dogsbody
How does he do THAT. I can listen to Roy for ages, he is just INCREDIBLE.
@RichardSalvucci
God's in the house. Good night.
@tamazpatarkalashvili2811
Great trumpet solo
@oliver13942
yes that true!!!
@jhb134
THANKS for uploading a video, of Roy, at his, characteristic, best. Also, it's Osie (not Ozie) Johnson, on drums. There's a vibraphone in the background, and a bass player ... but don't know who either are.
@imindahoodfosho
This comment section seemed lonley <3
@jeffcraven7376
As much as I love Roy and Dizzy's playing, smoking did them both in, in getting the air thru their horns. Young wind musicians: all smoking does is maybe make you look cool but destroys your lung capacity and the amount of air you can put through your horn. Cigarettes WILL destroy your lung capacity; Cigars will sooner than
you think destroy you lip and lung capacity, smokeless tobacco will kill you lip.
Drugs of abuse in general, including the genuine poison of alcohol will take control if you let them and they will destroy you: BEST of my advise: Stay clear of alcohol and any other mind altering substance.Last time I saw Diz was in 1987 at Blues Alley in Georgetown, D.C. that keen intelligent, playful force had faded from his eyes: I think he knew he was dying. Diz tried his best in '87 to recreate who he was at his height like I'd never saw from anyone. Too many cigars & Liver Cancer (from whatever cause) did him in.
@alainjames9556
Jeff Craven - I got to spend a good deal of time with Roy Eldridge in the late 70s and early 80s. I saw him in night clubs. I saw him at parties. I rode with him in his car - and he in mine. I NEVER saw him smoke.
I don't think you know what you're talking about.
You're just using this incredible video of Roy Eldridge to post your personal polemic.
@jambajoby32
Some peeps lit cigs to use it as a timer
@57dogsbody
smoking while playing shouldbe made compulsory; it must help ,just look at these ol` cats.