“Is That All There Is?” is a poignant and introspective song performed by the legendary American jazz and pop singer Peggy Lee. Released in 1969, this track showcases Lee’s distinctive vocal style and ability to convey deep emotion through her music. The song was written by the prolific songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, who are also known for their work with Elvis Presley and other iconic artists.
The song was part of Peggy Lee’s album, also titled “Is That All There Is?”, which was released by Capitol Records. The album marked a significant moment in Lee’s career, reinforcing her reputation as a versatile and emotionally expressive singer. The song itself became one of Lee’s most memorable hits, resonating with listeners through its contemplative lyrics and melancholic tone.
“Is That All There Is?” achieved notable success on the charts. It reached number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned Lee a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Vocal Performance, Female in 1970. The song’s narrative, which reflects on various life experiences with a sense of existential resignation, struck a chord with many during the late 1960s, a period marked by social and cultural upheaval.
Leiber and Stoller’s composition, combined with Lee’s haunting performance, creates a timeless piece that continues to be appreciated for its artistry and emotional depth. The song’s orchestration, featuring lush arrangements and a melancholic melody, complements Lee’s vocal delivery, making it a standout track in her extensive discography.
“Is That All There Is?” remains a significant part of Peggy Lee’s legacy, highlighting her ability to connect with her audience through profound and thought-provoking music. The song’s exploration of life’s disappointments and the search for meaning resonates with listeners of all ages, making it a timeless classic that continues to be relevant decades after its release.
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Lyrics
I remember when I was a little girl
Our house caught on fire
I’ll never forget the look on my father’s face as he
Gathered me up in his arms and
Faced through the burning building out on the pavement
And I stood there
Shivering in my pajamas and
WAtched the whole world go up in flames
And when it was all over
I said to myself
Is that all there is to a fire?
Is that all there is
Is that all there is?
If that’s all there is my friends
Then let’s keep dancing
Let’s break out the booze and have a ball
If that’s all there is
And when I was twelve years old
My daddy took me to the circus
The greatest show on Earth
There were clowns and elephants, dancing bears
And a beautiful lady in pink
Tights flew high above our heads
And as I sat there watching
I had the feeling that something was missing
I don’t know what, but
When it was over
I said to myself
Is that all there is to the circus?
Is that all there is
Is that all there is?
If that’s all there is my friends
Then let’s keep dancing
Let’s break out the booze and have a ball
If that’s all there is
And then I fell in love
With the most wonderful boy in the world
We’d take long walks by the river or
Just sit for hours gazing into each other’s eyes
We were so very much in love
Then one day
He went away
And I thought I’d die, but I didn’t
And when I didn’t
I said to myself
Is that all there is to love?
Is that all there is
Is that all there is?
If that’s all there is, my friends
Then let’s keep
I know what you must be saying to yourselves
If that’s the way she feels about it
Why doesn’t she just end it all?
Oh, no, not me
I’m not ready for that final disappointment
Because I know
Just as well as I’m standing here talking to you
That when that final moment comes
And I’m breathing my last breat
I’ll be saying to myself
Is that all there is
Is that all there is?
If that’s all there is my friend
Then let’s keep dancing
Let’s break out the booze and have a ball
If that’s all there is
