About the song
Perry Como – And I Love You So (Live 1994)
There’s a certain magic that happens when a timeless voice meets a timeless song. And when that voice belongs to the legendary Perry Como, and the song is the heart-wrenchingly beautiful “And I Love You So,” the result is pure enchantment. This live rendition from 1994 captures Como at his finest, his velvety baritone wrapping around the melody like a warm embrace.
For those unfamiliar, Perry Como was more than just a singer; he was an icon of 20th-century American pop culture. With his relaxed style and effortlessly smooth vocals, he epitomized a bygone era of elegance and sophistication. “Mr. C,” as he was affectionately known, was a fixture on radio, television, and record players for decades, his career spanning from the big band era to the dawn of rock and roll. Yet, through it all, he remained a steadfast champion of the romantic ballad, his voice the perfect vehicle for songs of love, longing, and devotion.
“And I Love You So,” written by Don McLean, is one such ballad. Released in 1970, it became a major hit for McLean himself, but it was Como’s 1973 recording that truly cemented its place in the popular consciousness. Como’s interpretation, with its understated delivery and heartfelt sincerity, resonated deeply with listeners, transforming the song into a timeless classic.
This particular live performance from 1994 offers a glimpse into Como’s enduring artistry. Even in his later years, his voice retained its remarkable clarity and warmth, his phrasing impeccable, his delivery imbued with a lifetime of experience and emotion. There’s a palpable sense of intimacy in this recording, as if Como is singing directly to you, sharing a deeply personal confession.
As the lush orchestration swells and recedes, Como’s voice remains the focal point, drawing you into the song’s narrative of unwavering love and devotion. The lyrics, simple yet profound, speak of a love that transcends time and circumstance, a love that endures through thick and thin. And in Como’s hands, these words take on an added layer of meaning, his voice conveying the depth and sincerity of the emotion behind them.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Perry Como or a newcomer to his music, this live rendition of “And I Love You So” is sure to captivate and move you. It’s a testament to the enduring power of a great song, a great voice, and a great artist.
Video
Lyrics
And I love you so
The people ask me how
How I’ve lived till now
I tell them I don’t know
I guess they understand
How lonely life has been
But life began again
The day you took my hand
And yes, I know how lonely life can be
The shadows follow me ‘n’ the night won’t set me free
But I don’t let the evening get me down
Now that you’re around me
And you love me, too
Your thoughts are just for me
You set my spirit free
I’m happy that you do
The book of life is brief
And once a page is read
All but life is dead
That is my belief
And yes, I know how lonely life can be
The shadows follow me and the night won’t set me free
But I don’t let the evening get me down
Now that you’re around me