About the song
Frank Sinatra’s iconic rendition of “My Way” has become more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone, a hymn to personal autonomy and the pursuit of one’s own path. Released in 1969, the track quickly solidified Sinatra’s status as the “Chairman of the Board,” a title that perfectly encapsulates his commanding presence and enduring legacy.
Originally composed in French as “Comme d’habitude,” the song’s melody was adapted by Paul Anka, who penned the English lyrics. Anka’s version, while faithful to the original’s spirit, infused the song with a distinctive American sensibility. The lyrics, filled with both regret and defiance, paint a portrait of a man who has lived life on his own terms, regardless of the consequences.
Sinatra’s delivery of “My Way” is nothing short of masterful. His voice, rich and resonant, conveys a sense of both authority and vulnerability. The song’s arrangement, featuring a lush orchestral backdrop and Sinatra’s signature phrasing, creates an atmosphere of timeless elegance.
Over the years, “My Way” has been covered by countless artists, each adding their own unique interpretation to the classic. From Elvis Presley’s soulful rendition to Sid Vicious’s punk-infused take, the song has proven to be a versatile and enduring piece of music.
Sinatra’s version of “My Way” remains the definitive recording, a testament to his artistry and the song’s enduring appeal. It’s a song that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, a reminder that it’s never too late to chart your own course and live life on your own terms.
Video
Lyrics
… And now, the end is near
And so I face the final curtain
My friend, I’ll say it clear
I’ll state my case, of which I’m certain
I’ve lived a life that’s full
I traveled each and every highway
And more, much more than this
I did it my way
… Regrets, I’ve had a few
But then again, too few to mention
I did what I had to do
And saw it through without exemption
I planned each charted course
Each careful step along the byway
And more, much more than this
I did it my way
… Yes, there were times, I’m sure you knew
When I bit off more than I could chew
But through it all, when there was doubt
I ate it up and spit it out
I faced it all, and I stood tall
And did it my way
… I’ve loved, I’ve laughed and cried
I’ve had my fill, my share of losing
And now, as tears subside
I find it all so amusing
To think I did all that
And may I say, not in a shy way
Oh, no, oh, no, not me
I did it my way
… For what is a man, what has he got?
If not himself, then he has naught
To say the things he truly feels
And not the words of one who kneels
The record shows I took the blows
And did it my way
… Yes, it was my way