How long has this been going on lyrics
Have you ever found yourself listening to a song and wondering, “How long has this been going on?” Well, you’re not alone. Throughout the years, countless artists have created timeless music that continues to resonate with audiences today. It’s amazing to think about the impact that these songs have had on our lives and the emotions they evoke.
Lyrics have the power to transport us to different times and places, allowing us to experience a range of emotions. The very first line of a song can grab our attention and pull us in, leaving us curious about what’s to come. This is especially true for songs that have stood the test of time and remain popular decades after their release.
For many music lovers, the lyrics of a song hold a special meaning. They can bring back memories of a specific moment in our lives or remind us of certain people who were important to us. The words of a song have the ability to touch our hearts and make us feel understood in a way that few other things can.
Meaning of How Long Has This Been Going On Lyrics
The song “How Long Has This Been Going On” is a popular jazz standard written by George and Ira Gershwin. It was originally composed for the 1927 musical Funny Face. Over the years, it has been performed by many renowned artists, such as Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan.
Exploring the Lyrics
The lyrics of “How Long Has This Been Going On” discuss the uncertainty and confusion involving a romantic relationship. The song delves into the emotional rollercoaster of realizing that something meaningful has been happening without one’s explicit knowledge or understanding.
The opening lyrics “I could cry salty tears, where have I been all these years?” evoke the emotional shock experienced upon the sudden realization that the singer has been oblivious to the depth of their feelings. The lyrics continue to explore the journey of self-discovery, as the singer questions the origin and duration of this intense emotional connection.
Furthermore, the lyrics “Lovers say that in time, it gets better” express a glimmer of hope that time may help unravel the enigma of the relationship. However, the underlying uncertainty of the lyrics remains, reflecting the complex nature of human emotions and relationships.
Key Themes and Interpretations
The lyrics of “How Long Has This Been Going On” highlight several key themes:
| Invisible Connections | The lyrics suggest that meaningful relationships and emotional connections can exist unbeknownst to the participants, presenting a sense of surprise and fascination. |
| Emotional Confusion | The lyrics describe the emotional turmoil and confusion one experiences when confronting the realization of a hidden emotional connection. |
| Self-discovery | The song reflects the journey of self-discovery, as the singer questions their own awareness and understanding of their emotions. |
| Hope and Uncertainty | The lyrics convey a mix of hope and uncertainty, suggesting that while time may hold answers, the outcome of the relationship remains uncertain. |
Overall, “How Long Has This Been Going On” is a beautifully crafted jazz standard that explores the complexities of emotions and relationships. Its introspective lyrics resonate with listeners, allowing them to reflect on their own experiences of unexpected connections and emotional discoveries.
Popular Interpretations of “How Long Has This Been Going On” Lyrics
“How Long Has This Been Going On” is a popular song written by George and Ira Gershwin. Since its release in 1927, the lyrics of this song have been interpreted and performed in various ways by different artists across different genres. Here are some of the popular interpretations of the song lyrics:
1. Romantic Love
Many interpret the lyrics of “How Long Has This Been Going On” as a representation of romantic love and the confusion or discovery of one’s feelings. The lyrics describe a relationship that has been going on unnoticed or unacknowledged for some time, building up emotions and a longing for more intimacy.
By emphasizing phrases like “How long has this been going on?” and “Am I really all that you need?”, artists emphasize the questioning and uncertainty that often come with new romantic connections.
2. Forbidden Love
The lyrics of “How Long Has This Been Going On” can also be interpreted as reflecting a forbidden or clandestine love affair. The secrecy and hidden nature of the relationship are highlighted by phrases like “We could steal away to a hideaway” and “Someone might have laughed.” This interpretation adds a touch of suspense and thrill to the song, capturing the allure and excitement of forbidden passion.
By creating an atmosphere of secrecy and clandestine rendezvous, artists emphasize the thrill of indulging in a forbidden love affair.
It is worth noting that interpretations of song lyrics can vary depending on the artist’s performance style, vocals, and other musical elements.
Overall, the lyrics of “How Long Has This Been Going On” have become timeless, capturing various emotions and experiences in love. Whether it’s the discovery of a hidden connection or the thrill of a forbidden affair, artists have used these lyrics to convey different shades of passion and longing in their performances.
Background
“How Long Has This Been Going On” is a song written by George and Ira Gershwin. It was first introduced in 1927 in the musical Funny Face. The musical was a collaboration between the Gershwin brothers and Broadway producer Edgar Selwyn.
The song has since become a jazz standard and has been recorded by numerous artists, including Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, and Sarah Vaughan. The lyrics of the song explore the uncertainty and longing that can accompany unrequited love. The emotional depth of the lyrics, combined with the memorable melody, has made it a beloved song among jazz musicians and fans alike.
In addition to its popularity as a stand-alone song, “How Long Has This Been Going On” has also been featured in several films and television shows. One notable example is the 1957 film Funny Face, which starred Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire. The song was performed by Hepburn in a memorable scene set in a Parisian cafe.
Over the years, the song has been interpreted in various musical styles, including swing, bossa nova, and ballad arrangements. Its enduring popularity and status as a jazz standard are a testament to the timeless quality of its composition and the emotional resonance of its lyrics.
Origins of “How Long Has This Been Going On” Lyrics
The song “How Long Has This Been Going On” is a popular jazz standard that was composed by George Gershwin, with lyrics written by his brother, Ira Gershwin. It was introduced in the musical comedy “Rosalie” which opened in 1928.
The musical “Rosalie” was a collaboration between George Gershwin and the playwright William Anthony McGuire. It tells the story of a love affair between a wealthy American woman and a European prince.
George Gershwin’s Inspiration
George Gershwin was inspired to write the music for “How Long Has This Been Going On” after attending some early jazz performances in New York City during the 1920s. He was particularly fascinated by the syncopated rhythms and improvisational solos that were characteristic of the genre.
Gershwin’s composition incorporates these jazz elements, featuring a swinging rhythm and a memorable melody. The song is performed in a ballad style, allowing the vocalist and instrumentalists to express a range of emotions.
Ira Gershwin’s Lyrics
Ira Gershwin’s lyrics for “How Long Has This Been Going On” capture the uncertainty and longing often associated with a romantic relationship. The narrator questions the status and duration of the relationship, exploring themes of doubt and desire.
The lyrics are known for their clever wordplay and rhyme scheme. Ira Gershwin’s ability to craft lyrics that fit George Gershwin’s melodies seamlessly is a testament to the brothers’ creative partnership.
| Writer | Musical | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Ira Gershwin | Rosalie | 1928 |
“How Long Has This Been Going On” has become a beloved classic in the American songbook, recorded and performed by numerous artists over the years. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the Gershwin brothers’ talent for creating timeless music and lyrics.
Composer and Lyricist of How Long Has This Been Going On
“How Long Has This Been Going On” is a popular song composed by George and Ira Gershwin. The song was first introduced in the 1927 musical “Funny Face,” which starred Fred and Adele Astaire.
George Gershwin, born in 1898, was a renowned American composer and pianist. He is best known for his contributions to the American music genre, including his collaborations with his brother Ira Gershwin. George Gershwin’s revolutionary compositions blended elements of classical music with jazz and popular music, creating a unique and influential sound.
Ira Gershwin, born in 1896, was an American lyricist who worked closely with George Gershwin throughout his career. Ira was known for his witty and clever wordplay, which perfectly complemented his brother’s musical compositions. The duo collaborated on many successful Broadway musicals and contributed numerous hit songs to the American Songbook.
“How Long Has This Been Going On” is one of the timeless classics created by George and Ira Gershwin. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years and remains a beloved standard in the jazz and popular music genres. With its haunting melody and poignant lyrics, “How Long Has This Been Going On” continues to captivate audiences and showcase the brilliance of the Gershwin brothers’ collaborations.
Legacy and Influence
The song “How Long Has This Been Going On” has had a significant impact on the American music landscape. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the talent and creativity of George and Ira Gershwin. Their ability to blend different musical styles and create memorable melodies and lyrics left a lasting impression on the world of music. The song’s continued presence in performances and recordings is a testament to the timeless appeal of the Gershwins’ work.
Other Notable Works by George and Ira Gershwin
In addition to “How Long Has This Been Going On,” George and Ira Gershwin collaborated on many other hit songs and Broadway musicals. Some of their most famous compositions include “Someone to Watch Over Me,” “I Got Rhythm,” “Embraceable You,” and the opera “Porgy and Bess.” Their contributions to the American Songbook and the musical theater world have made them legendary figures in the history of American music.
Analysis
The lyrics of “How Long Has This Been Going On” reveal a sense of longing and confusion. The singer is questioning the duration of an elusive romantic relationship and the depth of emotions involved. The words depict the emotional turmoil experienced by someone trying to make sense of their own feelings.
The song begins with the line “I could cry salty tears,” which suggests a deep emotional pain that the singer is experiencing. This line sets the stage for the rest of the song, as the lyrics continue to express a mixture of sadness, anger, and resignation.
The repetition of the phrase “how long has this been going on” throughout the song emphasizes the confusion and frustration felt by the singer. It conveys a sense of wondering how they reached this point of uncertainty and questioning the true nature of their relationship.
The lyrics also contain references to other emotions such as jealousy and betrayal. The line “I could feel you falling in love” suggests a sense of jealousy and insecurity, as the singer is aware of their partner’s emotions but is unsure if those feelings are reciprocated.
Overall, the lyrics of “How Long Has This Been Going On” dive deep into the complexity of human emotions and the struggle to understand them. They paint a vivid picture of a love affair filled with doubt, questioning, and a longing for clarity. The song’s raw and emotional lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced the rollercoaster of emotions in a complicated relationship.
Musical Structure of “How Long Has This Been Going On” Lyrics
The lyrics of “How Long Has This Been Going On” are set to a musical structure consisting of verses, a bridge, and a chorus. The song was composed by George Gershwin, with lyrics by Ira Gershwin. It was first introduced in the musical comedy “Rosalie” in 1928 and has since become a jazz standard.
The song follows the traditional 32-bar form, a common song structure in jazz and popular music. It can be divided into four sections, each consisting of eight measures:
- Verse 1: The song begins with a verse that sets up the story and introduces the main theme and melody. The verse is often omitted in contemporary interpretations of the song.
- Verse 2: This section repeats the same melody as the first verse but with different lyrics. It continues to develop the theme and prepares for the upcoming chorus.
- Bridge: The bridge serves as a contrasting section to the verses and is often considered the emotional highlight of the song. It typically has a different melody and chord progression, creating a sense of tension and release.
- Chorus: The chorus brings the song back to the main theme and melody. It provides resolution after the emotional build-up in the bridge and often features a catchy and memorable refrain.
The musical structure of “How Long Has This Been Going On” allows for variation and improvisation, making it a popular choice for jazz musicians. The distinct sections provide opportunities for instrumental solos and creative interpretation while still maintaining the overall integrity of the song.
Overall, the musical structure of “How Long Has This Been Going On” enhances the storytelling of its lyrics and allows for artistic interpretation, contributing to its lasting popularity and cultural significance.
Lyrics and Message of “How Long Has This Been Going On”
“How Long Has This Been Going On” is a song, composed by George Gershwin, with lyrics penned by his brother Ira Gershwin. The song was featured in the 1928 musical “Rosalie.” It has since become a jazz standard and has been recorded by various artists.
Lyrics
Here are the lyrics to “How Long Has This Been Going On”:
| Verse 1: | |
| I could cry salty tears, | (where have I been all these years?) |
| You got the Indian sign on me. | (could I be thrilled?) |
| I could wring wet tears, | (began is half done…) |
| Whichever suits you from A to Z. | |
| Chorus: | |
| And it fascinates me, | (I don’t know what you’ve done) |
| And I’m loving it too, | (I love you) |
| Verse 2: | |
| How long has this been going on? | |
| How long has this been going on? | |
| Well, if friends with perfect pitch, | |
| Take this thing and try to tell you what it is | (woah, woah) |
| They wouldn’t be dismissed. |
Message and Interpretation
The song delves into the confusion and intensity of a newfound romantic relationship. It expresses the speaker’s astonishment and wonder about the duration and depth of their feelings. The lyrics play with metaphors and allegory, depicting the speaker’s emotional vulnerability and eagerness to understand how their love has developed.
The repeated question, “How long has this been going on?” emphasizes both the speaker’s enchantment and obsession with understanding the origin and meaning of their feelings. The final lines of the song suggest that even individuals with musical expertise wouldn’t be able to explain or dismiss the significant connection the speaker feels with their romantic partner.
The lyrics of “How Long Has This Been Going On” offer listeners a glimpse into the emotional turmoil and confusion often associated with the early stages of a romantic relationship. The song’s appeal lies not only in its catchy melody and unique composition but also its relatability to anyone who has experienced the complex and bewildering nature of falling in love.
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