About The Song
(Watch the video below)
"Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered" is a classic jazz standard with a rich history of interpretations by various artists, and Rod Stewart's rendition adds a distinctive touch to this timeless tune. Originally written by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart for the 1940 musical "Pal Joey," the song has become a staple in the Great American Songbook, celebrated for its sophisticated melody and poignant lyrics. Rod Stewart's version, featured on his 2003 album "It Had to Be You: The Great American Songbook," showcases his ability to infuse a classic with his own unique vocal style.
Rod Stewart's take on "Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered" is characterized by his signature raspy voice and a charmingly laid-back delivery. The album, part of Stewart's ongoing exploration of the American songbook, features his interpretations of timeless standards. In this particular track, Stewart delves into the emotional nuances of the song, capturing the essence of the lyrics with his soulful vocal approach.
The lyrics of "Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered" tell the story of someone who is entangled in a complex and intense romantic relationship. The opening lines, "He's a fool and don't I know it, but a fool can have his charms," set the stage for a narrative of love and infatuation. The clever wordplay and introspective tone of the lyrics have made the song a favorite among fans of classic jazz and vocal standards.
Stewart's interpretation of the song is marked by a lush and sophisticated musical arrangement. The orchestration, featuring elegant strings and tasteful instrumentation, complements the romantic nature of the lyrics. The arrangement retains the classic feel of the original while allowing Stewart to infuse it with a modern sensibility. The result is a rendition that pays homage to the timeless quality of the song while giving it a fresh and contemporary twist.
What sets Stewart's version apart is the emotional depth he brings to the performance. His nuanced phrasing and vocal inflections convey the complexity of the emotions expressed in the lyrics. From the wistful reflections on love's challenges to the playful acknowledgment of the bewitching allure, Stewart's delivery captures the essence of the song's narrative, creating a connection with the listener.
Stewart's raspy voice, often associated with rock and blues, adds a layer of authenticity to the jazz standard. It's a testament to his versatility as an artist, demonstrating that he can seamlessly transition between genres while maintaining the integrity of the original material. In "Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered," Stewart showcases not only his vocal prowess but also his ability to interpret and inhabit the emotional landscape of a song.
In conclusion, Rod Stewart's rendition of "Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered" is a masterful exploration of a classic jazz standard. His soulful interpretation, coupled with a sophisticated musical arrangement, pays homage to the song's timeless allure. Stewart's version stands as a testament to the enduring power of the Great American Songbook and his role in preserving and revitalizing these timeless treasures for new generations to appreciate and enjoy.
Video
Lyrics
Let's sing along with the lyrics!
After one whole quart of brandy
Like a daisy I awake
With no Bromo Seltzer handy,
I don't even shake.
Men are not a new sensation;
I've done pretty well, I think.
But this half-pint imitation
Put me on the blink
I'm wild again
Beguiled again
A simpering, whimpering child again
Bewitched, bothered and bewildered am I
Listen, baby
I couldn't sleep
And wouldn't sleep
Until I could sleep where I shouldn't sleep
Bewitched, bothered and bewildered am I
Lost my heart but what of it?
My mistake I agree.
Oh she's such a laugh, and I love it
Although the laugh's on me.
Ooh I'll sing to him
Bring springs to him
And worship the trousers that cling to him
Bewitched, bothered and bewildered am I
Oh you're so cute
Oh she's kept enough, she's slept enough
And yet, where it counts she's adapt enough
Aha
Bewitched, bothered and bewildered am I
When he talks he is seeking
Words to get off his chest.
Horizontally speaking
She's at her very best.
Oh we've seen a lot
I mean a lot
And now we're like sweet seventeen a lot
Bewitched, bothered and bewildered am I
Oh, we're vexed again
Perplexed again
Thank God we can't be over-sexed again
Bewitched, bothered and bewildered am I