About the song
Peggy Lee’s “The Siamese Cat Song” is a whimsical and playful piece that captures the mischievous spirit of Siamese cats. Released as part of the soundtrack for Disney’s animated film “Lady and the Tramp” in 1955, the song quickly became a memorable favorite among audiences of all ages.
The song is sung from the perspective of two misbehaving Siamese cats, Si and Am, who cause chaos and mayhem wherever they go. Peggy Lee’s voice lends a unique charm to the feline characters, infusing the song with a blend of cunning humor and catchy melodies.
From the opening lines, “We are Siamese if you please / We are Siamese if you don’t please,” Peggy Lee’s delivery is both sultry and teasing, perfectly embodying the dual personalities of the cats. The lyrics playfully describe the cats’ knack for causing trouble, from knocking over vases to unraveling yarn, all while maintaining an air of aloof superiority.
The musical arrangement complements the mischievous lyrics with its oriental-inspired motifs, reflecting the exotic origins traditionally associated with Siamese cats. The use of pentatonic scales and percussive elements further enhances the playful atmosphere of the song, transporting listeners into the world of these cunning and charismatic felines.
Beyond its entertainment value, “The Siamese Cat Song” showcases Peggy Lee’s versatility as a singer and performer. Her ability to capture the essence of the characters through her vocal delivery and interpretation adds depth to the animated film, making the cats’ antics even more memorable and endearing.
Over the decades since its release, “The Siamese Cat Song” has remained a beloved classic, cherished for its humor, catchy melody, and Peggy Lee’s iconic performance. It continues to delight new generations of listeners and serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of both Disney’s storytelling and Peggy Lee’s musical legacy.
Video
Lyrics
We are Siamese if you please
We are Siamese if you don’t please
We are former residents of Siam
There are no finer cat than I amDo you see what I see with my eyes?
People have been baking up some pies
Peeping jumping up upon their window
Though delicious spice we could get intoWho is that who is living in that wire house
It must be a bird because it’s not a mouse
If we’re sneakin’ up upon it carefully
There will be some bird for you and some for meDo you seeing that thing swimming round and round?
Maybe we could reaching in and make it drown
If we’re sneakin’ up upon it carefully
There will be some fish for you and some for me