Night And Day

Ella Fitzgerald's rendition of 'Night and Day' is a classic example of the Great American Songbook coming to life through the voice of one of jazz's most iconic singers. The song, originally written by Cole Porter for the 1932 musical 'Gay Divorce,' has been covered by many artists, but Fitzgerald's version stands out for its emotional depth and vocal mastery. The lyrics speak of an all-consuming love that persists relentlessly, both 'night and day.' The song uses vivid imagery to compare the constancy of this love to natural and man-made rhythms, such as the beat of a tom-tom or the ticking of a clock, suggesting that the singer's feelings are as persistent and omnipresent as these sounds.

The central theme of 'Night and Day' is the intense longing and desire that one feels for their beloved. This yearning is portrayed as an unstoppable force that occupies the singer's thoughts continuously. The repetition of 'you, you, you' emphasizes the singular focus of the singer's affection. The lyrics also convey a sense of desperation and torment, as the singer expresses that this inner turmoil will not cease until they can be with their love and express their passion fully. The phrase 'under the hide of me' suggests a deep, almost primal level of desire that is an integral part of the singer's being.

Ella Fitzgerald's interpretation of 'Night and Day' adds layers of emotion to the song through her expressive delivery. Her ability to convey the subtleties of longing and the intensity of love through her voice makes the song resonate with listeners. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its universal theme of love's power and the human experience of desire that transcends time and place. 'Night and Day' remains a beloved standard, capturing the essence of romantic yearning in a way that few songs can.