What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?

Ella Fitzgerald's rendition of 'What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?' is a timeless classic that captures the essence of romantic uncertainty and longing. The song, written by Frank Loesser in 1947, is a poignant exploration of the hopes and anxieties that come with the approach of New Year's Eve. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a festive atmosphere filled with ringing bells, blowing horns, and couples sharing intimate moments. Amidst this backdrop, the singer wonders if they will be spending the special night with their beloved or if they will be left alone, 'among the missing.'

The song's central theme revolves around the vulnerability of expressing one's feelings and the fear of rejection. The singer contemplates whether it is too early to ask about New Year's plans, yet they muster the courage to pose the 'jackpot question' in advance. This act of bravery highlights the universal human experience of taking emotional risks in the pursuit of love and companionship. The repeated questioning of 'What are you doing New Year's Eve?' underscores the singer's deep desire for connection and the hope that they might be chosen out of 'the thousand invitations' their love interest will receive.

Ella Fitzgerald's smooth and emotive delivery adds an extra layer of depth to the song, making it resonate with listeners on a personal level. Her interpretation brings out the nuances of longing and hope, making the listener feel the weight of the singer's anticipation and uncertainty. The song's timeless appeal lies in its ability to evoke the bittersweet emotions associated with the end of one year and the beginning of another, making it a perfect anthem for anyone who has ever felt the pangs of unrequited love or the thrill of new possibilities.