About the song
Bobby Darin’s rendition of “Mack the Knife” is a quintessential example of a song that transcends time and genre. Originally penned by Kurt Weill and Bertolt Brecht for the 1928 German opera “Die Dreigroschenoper” (The Threepenny Opera), the song has been reinterpreted countless times. However, it’s Darin’s dynamic and energetic take that has solidified its place in the American songbook.
Darin’s version, recorded in 1958, is a departure from the more somber, cabaret-style interpretation of the original. He infuses the song with a playful swing rhythm and a soaring vocal performance, elevating it to a whole new level. The arrangement, featuring a tight rhythm section and a spirited brass section, perfectly complements Darin’s charismatic delivery.
What sets Darin’s rendition apart is his innovative approach to the song’s structure. Unlike the original, which remains in the same key throughout, Darin’s version modulates up a semitone every verse, creating a sense of rising tension and excitement. This unexpected twist adds a layer of complexity and dynamism to the song, making it both familiar and fresh.
The song’s success was undeniable. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Darin’s only chart-topping single. Its popularity extended beyond the rock and roll audience, earning praise from esteemed figures like Frank Sinatra. The song’s enduring appeal can be attributed to its infectious melody, Darin’s captivating performance, and the timeless themes of love, betrayal, and the allure of the criminal underworld.
Today, “Mack the Knife” remains a beloved standard, frequently covered by artists across various genres. Darin’s version continues to be regarded as the definitive interpretation, a testament to his talent and the song’s enduring power.
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Lyrics
Oh, the shark, babe, has such teeth, dear
And it shows them pearly white
Just a jackknife has old MacHeath, babe
And he keeps it, ah, out of sight
You know when that shark bites with his teeth, babe
Scarlet billows start to spread
Fancy gloves, oh, wears old MacHeath, babe
So there’s never, never a trace of red
Now on the sidewalk, huh, huh, whoo sunny morning, un huh
Lies a body just oozin’ life, eek
And someone’s sneakin’ ’round the corner
Could that someone be Mack the Knife?
There’s a tugboat, huh, huh, down by the river don’tcha know
Where a cement bag’s just a-drooppin’ on down
Oh, that cement is just, it’s there for the weight, dear
Five’ll get ya ten, old Macky’s back in town
Now did ya hear ’bout Louie Miller? He disappeared, babe
After drawin’ out all his hard-earned cash
And now MacHeath spends just like a sailor
Could it be our boy’s done somethin’ rash?
Now Jenny Diver, ho, ho, yeah, Sukey Tawdry
Ooh, Miss Lotte Lenya and old Lucy Brown
Oh, the line forms on the right, babe
Now that Macky’s back in town
I said Jenny Diver, whoa, Sukey Tawdry
Look out to Miss Lotte Lenya and old Lucy Brown
Yes, that line forms on the right, babe
Now that Macky’s back in town
Look out, old Macky’s back
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