About the song
“When I Fall in Love,” composed by Victor Young with lyrics by Edward Heyman, stands as a timeless classic in the realm of romantic ballads. Originally introduced as the instrumental theme “Theme from One Minute to Zero” in Howard Hughes’ film, the song gained prominence with Jeri Southern’s vocal rendition in April 1952, arranged and conducted by the composer himself, Victor Young.
Doris Day’s rendition, recorded on June 5, 1952, marked the song’s breakthrough, released by Columbia Records and reaching number 20 on the Billboard chart. Since then, “When I Fall in Love” has been reimagined by numerous artists, each bringing their unique interpretation to this beloved standard.
One of the most notable interpretations came from Nat King Cole in 1956, recorded for his album ‘Love Is the Thing’. Cole’s rendition not only became a recurring theme in the 1957 film ‘Istanbul’ but also achieved significant commercial success, reaching No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart upon its release in the UK in 1957. This version’s enduring popularity led to a re-release in 1987, which climbed to number 4 on the UK charts and found a new audience when sampled in Pop Will Eat Itself’s 1988 hit “There Is No Love Between Us Anymore.”
In 1996, Natalie Cole paid homage to her father with a virtual duet, combining her vocals with recordings from his 1956 version. This rendition garnered critical acclaim and won two Grammy Awards: Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals and Best Instrumental Arrangement with Accompanying Vocal(s). Natalie Cole further showcased her versatility by recording another version of the song for her 1987 album ‘Everlasting’, demonstrating her ability to interpret the song in different musical styles.
Other notable artists who have contributed to the song’s enduring legacy include Johnny Mathis, whose 1959 rendition from the album ‘Open Fire, Two Guitars’ charted internationally, and the Lettermen, whose 1961 release reached No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 1 on the Easy Listening chart.
Throughout the decades, “When I Fall in Love” has continued to captivate audiences with its poignant lyrics and timeless melody. Its popularity persists with contemporary artists like Michael Bublé, who recorded a rendition for his 2018 album ‘Love’, ensuring that this classic song remains a cherished part of the musical landscape for generations to come.
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Lyrics
When I fall in love
It will be forever
Or I’ll never fall
In loveIn a restless world like this is
Love is ended before it’s begun
And too many moonlight kisses
Seem to cool in the warmth of the sunWhen I give my heart
It will be completely
Or I’ll never give
My heartAnd the moment I can feel that
You feel that way too
Is when I fall in love with youAnd the moment I can feel that
You feel that way too
Is when I fall in love with you