About the song
In the vast and storied discography of Frank Sinatra, few songs have managed to captivate audiences with the same level of sophistication and charm as “I’ve Got You Under My Skin”. This timeless classic, first introduced by Sinatra in 1946 on his weekly radio show, has undergone numerous transformations over the years, each one showcasing the legendary crooner’s remarkable vocal range and interpretive skills.
The song’s earliest recorded version, featured on Sinatra’s 1956 album “Songs for Swingin’ Lovers!”, is widely regarded as one of the finest collaborations between Sinatra and the incomparable Nelson Riddle. Riddle’s orchestral arrangement, inspired by the works of Maurice Ravel, particularly his iconic “Boléro”, adds a level of depth and complexity to the song that perfectly complements Sinatra’s smooth, velvety vocals. The resulting performance is a masterclass in elegance and refinement, with each note and phrase carefully crafted to create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability.
The success of this initial recording was not limited to its artistic merit; it also marked a significant commercial milestone for Sinatra, cementing his status as a major force in popular music. The album “Songs for Swingin’ Lovers!” would go on to become one of Sinatra’s best-selling records, and “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” would remain a staple of his live performances for years to come.
Over the years, Sinatra would revisit “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” on several occasions, each time bringing a new level of nuance and interpretation to the song. His 1963 re-recording for the album “Sinatra’s Sinatra”, featuring a trombone solo by Dick Nash, offers a slightly more subdued take on the classic, while his live performance with Count Basie and his orchestra, captured on the 1966 album “Sinatra at the Sands”, showcases the song’s ability to thrive in a more dynamic, improvisational setting.
One of the most intriguing aspects of “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” is its ability to transcend generations and musical styles. In 1993, Sinatra teamed up with U2 lead singer Bono for an electronically assembled duet, which was featured on the album “Duets”. This unlikely pairing resulted in a unique and captivating performance that blended Sinatra’s timeless vocals with Bono’s distinctive style, edgy style.
Throughout his career, Sinatra remained deeply committed to “I’ve Got You Under My Skin”, frequently incorporating it into his live shows and recordings. This tradition has been carried on by his son, Frank Sinatra Jr., who has continued to perform the song in his own concerts, ensuring that its timeless allure will be appreciated by audiences for generations to come.
In conclusion, “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” is a song that embodies the very essence of Frank Sinatra’s artistry: sophistication, elegance, and a deep understanding of the human experience. Through its various interpretations and performances, this classic has become an integral part of American musical heritage, a testament to the enduring power of great music to touch our hearts and minds.
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Lyrics
I’ve got you under my skin
I’ve got you deep in the heart of me
So deep in my heart that you’re really a part of me
I’ve got you under my skin
I’d tried so not to give in
I said to myself, “This affair never will go so well”
But why should I try to resist when, baby, I know so well
I’ve got you under my skin
I’d sacrifice anything come what might
For the sake of havin’ you near
In spite of a warning voice that comes in the night
And repeats, repeats in my ear
“Don’t you know, little fool, you never can win?
Use your mentality, wake up to reality”
But each time that I do just the thought of you makes me stop
Before I begin ’cause I’ve got you under my skinI would sacrifice anything come what might
For the sake of havin’ you near
In spite of the warning voice that comes in the night
And repeats, how it yells in my ear
“Don’t you know, little fool, you never can win?
Why not use your mentality, step up, wake up to reality”
But each time I do just the thought of you makes me stop
Just before I begin, ’cause I’ve got you under my skin
Yes, I’ve got you under my skin