Composer

:

Cole Porter

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Show Tune

Publication Date

:

Apr 1934

First Performance

:

Oct 3, 1934

"Miss Otis Regrets" is a popular song composed by Cole Porter in 1934. The song was first performed by Douglas Byng in London and later by Ethel Waters in New York. The song is a ballad that tells the story of a woman named Miss Otis who is arrested for killing her lover after he betrayed her. The song is known for its dark and melancholic tone, which is a departure from Porter's usual upbeat and witty style. The song is composed in the key of G minor and has a slow tempo. It is written in a 32-bar form with an AABA structure. The melody is simple and repetitive, with a descending chromatic line in the chorus that adds to the song's mournful quality. The lyrics are written in a conversational style, with Miss Otis speaking directly to the listener. The song is divided into three movements. The first movement sets the scene and introduces Miss Otis as a respectable woman who has been betrayed by her lover. The second movement describes Miss Otis's emotional state as she contemplates her fate. The third movement describes Miss Otis's execution and the reaction of the people around her. The song's characteristics include its use of irony and dark humor to tell a tragic story. The lyrics are full of double entendres and wordplay, which add to the song's complexity. The song also features Porter's signature use of sophisticated rhymes and clever wordplay. "Miss Otis Regrets" has been covered by many artists over the years, including Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, and Bette Midler. The song has become a jazz standard and is often performed at funerals and other solemn occasions. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Porter's skill as a songwriter and his ability to create music that resonates with audiences across generations.

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