Composer

:

Jerome Kern

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Popular

First Performance

:

1944

Average_duration

:

3:22

'Long Ago' is a popular song composed by Jerome Kern with lyrics by Ira Gershwin. The song was written in 1920 and premiered in the musical 'Sally,' which opened on December 21, 1920, at the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York City. The musical was a huge success, running for 570 performances. The song is a ballad that features a slow and melancholic melody. It is written in the key of F major and has a 4/4 time signature. The song has a simple and straightforward structure, with a verse-chorus form. The verse is sung in a lower register, while the chorus is sung in a higher register, creating a sense of emotional intensity. The lyrics of the song are nostalgic and wistful, evoking memories of a past love. The song's opening lines, "Long ago, far away, life was clear, close your eyes," set the tone for the rest of the song. The lyrics describe a time when life was simpler and love was pure. The chorus repeats the phrase "Long ago" several times, emphasizing the theme of nostalgia. The song's melody and lyrics work together to create a sense of longing and sadness. The slow tempo and minor chords contribute to the melancholic mood of the song. The lyrics are poetic and evocative, painting a vivid picture of a past love. 'Long Ago' is a classic example of Jerome Kern's talent for writing memorable melodies and Ira Gershwin's skill at crafting poignant lyrics. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Tony Bennett. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal.

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