About the song
Have you ever heard a song that instantly transports you to a specific time and place? “A Certain Smile” is one of those timeless tunes. Composed by the talented duo of Sammy Fain and Paul Francis Webster, this ballad first graced our ears in the 1958 film of the same name.
The song’s gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics perfectly capture the essence of romantic longing. It’s a tale as old as time: a love that’s both passionate and bittersweet. Johnny Mathis’ smooth, velvety voice brings the song to life, making it an instant classic. His rendition of “A Certain Smile” became a huge hit, reaching number four on the UK charts and number fourteen in the US.
The song’s popularity can be attributed to several factors. First, the lyrics are both evocative and relatable. They speak to the universal experience of love, loss, and longing. Second, the melody is simply beautiful. It’s a melody that stays with you long after the song has ended. And third, Johnny Mathis’ performance is nothing short of iconic. His voice is the perfect vehicle for this type of material.
It’s no surprise that “A Certain Smile” was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song. The song’s enduring appeal is a testament to the songwriting skills of Sammy Fain and Paul Francis Webster. It’s a song that has been covered by countless artists over the years, but Johnny Mathis’ version remains the definitive one.
If you’re looking for a song that will take you on a nostalgic journey, I highly recommend “A Certain Smile.” It’s a song that has stood the test of time and will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
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Lyrics
A certain smile, a certain face
Can lead an unsuspecting heart on a merry chase
A fleeting glance can say so many lovely things
Suddenly, you know why my heart singsYou love awhile and when love goes
You try to hide the tears inside with a cheerful pose
But in the hush of night, exactly like a bitter-sweet refrain
Comes that certain smile to haunt your heart againBut in the hush of night, exactly like a bitter-sweet refrain
Comes that certain smile to haunt your heart again