About the song
“Chances Are” by Johnny Mathis is one of the quintessential romantic ballads of the 1950s, encapsulating the era’s smooth, sophisticated style. Released in 1957, the song was written by the prolific songwriting duo Robert Allen and Al Stillman. It became one of Mathis’s signature hits, helping to solidify his place as one of the premier voices in pop and easy listening music.
“Chances Are” was featured on Mathis’s self-titled album “Johnny’s Greatest Hits,” which is often credited as one of the first greatest hits collections in music history. The song itself was a tremendous success, reaching number one on the Billboard Top 100 chart and also climbing to number four on the R&B charts. This crossover appeal showcased Mathis’s ability to touch a wide audience with his tender, emotive vocal delivery.
The lush orchestration, combined with Mathis’s silky voice, creates a timeless piece that has been cherished by listeners for decades. The lyrics express a gentle, hopeful love, with the memorable line, “Chances are ’cause I wear a silly grin the moment you come into view.” This sentiment resonated deeply with audiences, making “Chances Are” a staple at romantic gatherings and a favorite for special occasions.
Johnny Mathis’s career, spanning over six decades, has been marked by numerous hits, but “Chances Are” remains one of his most iconic songs. It was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998, a testament to its enduring legacy and influence on popular music. The song’s enduring popularity is a tribute to Mathis’s exceptional talent and the universal appeal of its heartfelt message.
For many, “Chances Are” evokes memories of a simpler, more innocent time, making it a perennial favorite among older generations who remember its original release and younger listeners who discover its charm anew. The song’s blend of sincere lyrics, beautiful melody, and Mathis’s unmatched vocal performance ensures that “Chances Are” will continue to be a beloved classic for years to come.
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Lyrics
Chances are ’cause I wear a silly grin
The moment you come into view
Chances are you think that I’m in love with you
Just because my composure sort of slips
The moment that your lips meet mine
Chances are you think my heart’s your Valentine
In the magic of moonlight when I sigh, “Hold me close, dear”
Chances are you believe the stars that fill the skies are in my eyes
Guess you feel you’ll always be the one and only one for me
And if you think you could
Well, chances are your chances are awfully good
Chances are you believe the stars that fill the skies are in my eyes
Guess you feel you’ll always be the one and only one for me
And if you think you could
Well, chances are your chances are awfully good
The chances are your chances are awfully good