About the song
“Strangers in the Night” is a timeless classic that has captivated audiences for decades with its enchanting melody and poignant lyrics. Composed by Bert Kaempfert with English lyrics by Charles Singleton and Eddie Snyder, the song was originally written as an instrumental theme tune for the 1966 film “A Man Could Get Killed.” However, it was Frank Sinatra’s iconic recording of the song that catapulted it to international fame, reaching number one on both the Billboard Hot 100 chart and the Easy Listening chart.
Sinatra’s rendition of “Strangers in the Night” is a masterclass in vocal interpretation, with his smooth, velvety tone and effortless phrasing bringing the lyrics to life. The song’s memorable melody, featuring a haunting half-tone key change, has become one of the most recognizable in popular music. The song’s success was not limited to the United States, as it also reached number one in seven other countries, including the UK, where it stayed at the top of the charts for three weeks.
Despite its widespread popularity, “Strangers in the Night” has a complex and contested history. Several individuals, including Avo Uvezian and Ivo Robić, have claimed authorship of the song, with some alleging that Kaempfert borrowed the melody from their own compositions. Additionally, Sinatra himself reportedly despised the song, calling it “a piece of shit” and “the worst fucking song that I have ever heard.” Nevertheless, the song’s enduring appeal has cemented its place in the pantheon of American popular music.
Throughout its history, “Strangers in the Night” has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including three Grammy Awards and an induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2008. The song’s timeless themes of love, longing, and connection continue to resonate with listeners today, making it a beloved classic that will endure for generations to come.
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Lyrics
Strangers in the night exchanging glances
Wondering in the night
What were the chances we’d be sharing love
Before the night was through
Something in your eyes was so inviting
Something in your smile was so exciting
Something in my heart
Told me I must have you
Strangers in the night
Two lonely people we were strangers in the night
Up to the moment
When we said our first hello
Little did we know
Love was just a glance away
A warm embracing dance away, and
Ever since that night we’ve been together
Lovers at first sight, in love forever
It turned out so right
For strangers in the night
Love was just a glance away
A warm embracing dance away
Ever since that night we’ve been together
Lovers at first sight, in love forever
It turned out so right
For strangers in the night