Ennis was born in Salisbury, North Carolina and met Hal Kemp while attending the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill. He joined Kemp's orchestra as a drummer and vocalist in the late 1920s, playing with him through 1937 including one tour of Europe in 1930. Following this Ennis put together his own band, which became a popular ensemble in Hollywood films. "Got a Date With an Angel" was his theme song. During this time Gil Evans was one of his arrangers. He also began performing comedy routines, and in 1938 he landed a job on Bob Hope's radio program, appearing as a regular until he entered the Army in 1943, where he conducted his own service band during World War II. He returned to Hollywood bandleading at the war's end and joined the Abbott and Costello radio program during the 1946-47 season.
Toward the end of the 1950s Ennis's career had faded, and he worked mostly in hotels in the Los Angeles area. He choked to death on a bone while eating dinner at a restaurant in Beverly Hills in 1963.
Josephine
Skinnay Ennis Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
She's a flirt, she's a scamp, she's the vampiest vamp I've ever seen
It seems to me she's always flirting with the fellows passing by
But when I say she winks, then she tells me she thinks
There's a cinder in her eye
I believe it would be better if I'd leave her and forget
Everybody says it would be wise
But each time that I go out to dance with somebody else
For there's nobody quite so nice who can be quite so mean
As my gal, what a gal, Josephine
There never was a gal I could love, like I love my Josephine
She's a flirt, she's a scamp, she's the vampiest vamp I've ever seen
It seems to me she's always flirting with the fellows passing by
But when I say she winks, then she tells me she thinks
There's a cinder in her eye
I believe it would be better if I'd leave her and forget
Everybody says it would be wise
But each time that I go out to dance with somebody else
I find myself dancing with tears in my eyes
For there's nobody quite so nice who can be quite so mean
As my gal, what a gal, Josephine
The lyrics to Skinnay Ennis's song "Josephine" depict a complex relationship with a woman named Josephine. The singer confesses that there has never been another woman he could love as much as Josephine, despite her flirtatious and mischievous nature. He describes her as the ultimate vamp, constantly flirting with other men as they pass by. However, when he confronts her about it, she explains that it's just a cinder in her eye.
Despite the conflicting opinions of others who advise him to leave Josephine and move on, the singer is unable to resist the pull she has on him. Every time he attempts to dance or be with someone else, he is overcome with tears in his eyes, finding himself still attached to Josephine. The lyrics suggest that Josephine has a unique combination of sweetness and meanness, making her an enigmatic and irresistible figure in the singer's life.
Overall, the song captures the conflicting emotions of being infatuated with someone who may not always treat you well, but whose allure is impossible to resist.
Line by Line Meaning
There never was a gal I could love, like I love my Josephine
No other woman has captured my love and affection the way Josephine has.
She's a flirt, she's a scamp, she's the vampiest vamp I've ever seen
Josephine is playful, mischievous, and exudes a seductive charm unlike anyone I've encountered.
It seems to me she's always flirting with the fellows passing by
It appears that Josephine enjoys teasing and showing interest in other men as they walk by.
But when I say she winks, then she tells me she thinks there's a cinder in her eye
However, whenever I mention her flirtatious gestures, she excuses them by claiming there's something bothering her eye.
I believe it would be better if I'd leave her and forget
Many people advise me that it would be wiser to end my relationship with Josephine and move on.
Everybody says it would be wise
The general consensus among those around me is that it would be a smart choice.
But each time that I go out to dance with somebody else
However, every time I attempt to enjoy the company of another woman while dancing,
I find myself dancing with tears in my eyes
I can't help but feel overwhelming sadness and heartache, leading to tears streaming down my face.
For there's nobody quite so nice who can be quite so mean
Despite her occasional cruelty, there is no one as kind and wonderful as Josephine.
As my gal, what a gal, Josephine
She may be challenging, but Josephine continues to hold a special place in my heart as my beloved partner.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: PINA KOLLARS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
PhoneixRising100
What can I say that has not been said ! That Sultry look and those Legs !!! The audio was SENSATIONAL, not heard before but a terrific version. An all round treat to view and listen to, thank\ you for posting Genia. Take care of yourself and have a good Easter. Stay Safe ~ Keep the ROCK faith --- Mike. x
Ioannis Xatzikonstantinou
You posted once again a fabulous video, i really enjoyed it very much! A Masterpiece. One of Crawford's best! This film is over 80 yrs old and always interesting and pleasant to watch. The story was written by a huge writer, Somerset Maugham. But the character is wonderfully played by Joan Crawford. She was pretty great as this very tormented character. Love her quote "What makes you think there aren't hardships when you're grown up?" It's so true. Perfect music for moments of love.Bravo!
Vieux Disques
I love the rhythm of this version. And the eyes of Joan Crawford of course! Thanks for sharing
judyaosta21
dear Genia may I take the opportunity to wish you and all the women who love your channel a happy International Women's Day (March 8). It's raining here in Italy but you've managed to make even a downpour glamorous so many thanks for the video and music.
Laura G Photos and Film
I enjoy watching the old movies of yesteryear. This one I have yet to see. Excellent song and visuals. Thank you, Genia !!
creamofcardstv
The legend of legends. Nice music and even nicer tribute :)
Bunny Biedenharn
One of my favorite movies, Carissima Genia. And a clique of 'Christians' like the ones hounding Sadie is a phenomenon I know about all too well. Perfect song to go with the images. The special effects the horn and that other instrument are making certainly summon the feeling that one does indeed have something under one's skin. I wonder if St. Joan of Brentwood ever had Scabies. BRILLIANT VIDEO! Baruch
Abraxas579
Querida amiga, como siempre, un vídeo muy especial*****
stef2012bg
Wonderful! Thank you!
marcello6878x
Wonderful video with many pics I've never seen before. of a great Hollywood star and a notorious loving mommie (dearest). Thank you for sharing Marcello