Shall We Dance
Tony Evans And His Orchestra Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴

Drop that long face
Come on have your fling
Why keep nursing the blues?
If you want this old world on a string

Put on your dancing shoes
Stop wasting time
Put on your dancing shoes
Watch your spirits climb

Shall we dance
Or keep on mopin'?
Shall we dance
And walk on air?

Shall we give in to despair?
Or shall we dance with never a care?
Life is short
We're growing older

Don't you be an also-ran
You'd better dance, little lady




Dance, little man
Dance whenever you can.

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "Shall We Dance" by Tony Evans And His Orchestra encourage the listener to let go of their sorrow, embrace joy, and take control of their own happiness. The opening lines, "Drop that long face, come on have your fling, why keep nursing the blues?" emphasize the importance of letting go of negativity and embracing the present moment. The lyrics suggest that instead of dwelling on sadness, one should take the opportunity to enjoy life and feel empowered.


The song then continues to urge the listener to put on their dancing shoes and stop wasting time. This signifies a call to action, encouraging the individual to actively engage in activities that bring them joy and lift their spirits. By using the metaphor of dancing shoes, the lyrics suggest that dancing, or engaging in activities that bring joy, can elevate one's mood and mindset.


The question posed in the chorus, "Shall we dance or keep on moping? Shall we dance and walk on air?" further emphasizes the choice between embracing joy and wallowing in despair. This juxtaposition highlights the contrast between giving in to negativity or choosing to dance through life with a carefree attitude. The lyrics present dancing as a metaphor for choosing happiness and seizing the moment, despite any obstacles or challenges that may come one's way.


The final verses of the song emphasize the fleeting nature of life and the importance of living in the present moment. The lyrics encourage the listener to not be a bystander in their own life, but instead to actively participate and embrace joy whenever possible. The repeated refrain to "dance, little lady, dance, little man, dance whenever you can" serves as a reminder to seize opportunities for joy and celebration, and to make the most of every moment. Overall, the lyrics of "Shall We Dance" evoke a sense of optimism, resilience, and empowerment, urging the listener to embrace joy and dance through life with a carefree spirit.




Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Songtrust Ave, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
To comment on or correct specific content, highlight it

Genre not found
Artist not found
Album not found
Song not found

More Versions