Composer

:

George Gershwin

Genre

:

Musical Theatre

Style

:

Song: Popular

Compose Date

:

1930

Average_duration

:

3:59

"But Not for Me" is a musical composition by George Gershwin, with lyrics by his brother Ira Gershwin. The song was written in 1930 for the musical "Girl Crazy," which premiered on October 14, 1930, at the Alvin Theatre in New York City. The musical was a hit, running for 272 performances, and "But Not for Me" quickly became one of its most popular songs. The plot of "Girl Crazy" revolves around a young man named Danny Churchill, who is sent to a small college in Arizona to straighten out his wild ways. While there, he falls in love with a local girl named Molly Gray, and together they try to save the struggling college from financial ruin. "But Not for Me" is sung by Molly in Act II, as she laments the fact that she has fallen in love with Danny, even though she knows he will never feel the same way about her. The song is a classic example of the Gershwin brothers' signature style, blending elements of jazz, blues, and Tin Pan Alley pop. The melody is simple and catchy, with a memorable opening phrase that sets the tone for the rest of the song. The lyrics are bittersweet, expressing the pain of unrequited love in a way that is both poignant and relatable. "But Not for Me" has been covered by countless artists over the years, including Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and Frank Sinatra. It has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, cementing its place as one of the most enduring songs in the American musical canon. Overall, "But Not for Me" is a timeless classic that showcases the Gershwin brothers' unparalleled talent for crafting memorable melodies and poignant lyrics. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the enduring power of great music to touch the hearts and souls of listeners across generations.

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