Composer

:

Jerome Kern

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Show Tune

First Performance

:

1927

Average_duration

:

3:58

Make Believe is a popular song composed by Jerome Kern with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II. It was written for the musical Show Boat, which premiered on December 27, 1927, at the Ziegfeld Theatre in New York City. The musical was based on the novel of the same name by Edna Ferber and was a groundbreaking work in the history of American musical theater. Make Believe is a romantic ballad that is sung by the characters Magnolia and Ravenal in the first act of the musical. The song is a duet that expresses the characters' love for each other and their belief that their love can overcome any obstacle. The melody is simple and lyrical, with a gentle waltz rhythm that underscores the romantic nature of the lyrics. The song is divided into two distinct sections, each with its own melody and lyrics. The first section is sung by Magnolia, who expresses her belief in the power of love to conquer all. The second section is sung by Ravenal, who echoes Magnolia's sentiments and pledges his love to her. Make Believe is one of the most famous songs from Show Boat and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to Kern's skill as a composer and Hammerstein's ability to write lyrics that capture the essence of the characters and the story. Overall, Make Believe is a beautiful and timeless song that captures the romantic spirit of Show Boat. Its simple melody and heartfelt lyrics have made it a favorite of audiences and performers alike, and it remains a beloved classic of American musical theater.

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