About the song
Ah, “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes”… a song that truly transcends generations. Who hasn’t been swept away by the sheer beauty of The Platters’ rendition? It’s a timeless classic for a reason, folks. Released in 1958, this wasn’t some flash-in-the-pan pop hit; it’s a song with deep roots, originating from the 1933 operetta “Roberta” by Jerome Kern and Otto Harbach. But it was The Platters, with their signature smooth harmonies and the incomparable lead vocals of Tony Williams, who truly made this song their own.
Now, what is it about “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes” that continues to resonate with listeners even today? Well, for starters, the melody is simply gorgeous. It’s one of those tunes that gets under your skin and stays with you long after the song has ended. Kern was a master of melody, and this one is a prime example of his genius. Then there are the lyrics. They speak of love, loss, and disillusionment – universal themes that anyone who has ever experienced the joys and heartaches of romance can relate to.
“When your heart’s on fire, you must realize, smoke gets in your eyes.” Such a poetic way to describe the blinding effect of love, isn’t it? It’s a reminder that when we’re deeply in love, we often fail to see things clearly. We’re caught up in the moment, lost in a haze of emotion. But as the song so poignantly reminds us, love can be fleeting. The flames of passion can die down, leaving us with nothing but the sting of regret and the lingering smoke of what once was.
The Platters’ version is particularly special because of the way they deliver the song. Their voices blend together seamlessly, creating a rich, velvety sound that is both soothing and heartbreaking. And Williams’ lead vocal is just exquisite – full of emotion and nuance. He truly captures the pain and longing of the lyrics.
But beyond the technical brilliance of the performance, there’s something about “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes” that speaks to the soul. It’s a song that reminds us of the fragility of love and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with those we care about. It’s a timeless classic that continues to touch hearts and move souls, generation after generation. So, sit back, relax, and let the music transport you to a place where love reigns supreme, even if it’s just for a few precious moments.
Video
Lyrics
They asked me how I knew my true love was true
Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh, I, of course replied
“Something here inside cannot be denied”
(Do-do-do, do-do-do, do-do-do, whoa)
They said, “Someday, you’ll find all who love are blind
Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh, when your heart’s on fire
You must realize smoke gets in your eyes”
So, I chaffed them, and I gaily laughed
To think they could doubt my love
Yet, today, my love has flown away
I am without my love (without my love)
Now, laughing friends deride tears I cannot hide
Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh, so I smile and say
“When a lovely flame dies
Smoke gets in your eyes” (smoke gets in your eyes)
Smoke gets in your eyes