The Platters – Smoke Get In Your Eyes

About the song

The Platters‘ “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” is a timeless classic that showcases the group’s smooth vocal harmonies and the rich tradition of American popular music. Released in 1958, this song became one of The Platters’ signature hits and is renowned for its lush orchestration and emotive delivery.

The Platters were one of the most successful vocal groups of the 1950s and 1960s, known for their blend of rhythm and blues with pop, doo-wop, and soul influences. The group originally consisted of Tony Williams (lead tenor), David Lynch (tenor), Herb Reed (bass), Paul Robi (baritone), and Zola Taylor (alto). Their sophisticated style and polished performances set them apart in the early rock and roll era.

“Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” is a classic ballad written by Jerome Kern (music) and Otto Harbach (lyrics). The song was originally composed for the 1933 musical “Roberta,” and it has been covered by numerous artists over the decades. The Platters’ version is particularly notable for its rich, orchestral arrangement and the emotive interpretation brought by lead singer Tony Williams.

The song’s lyrics explore the theme of heartache and unrequited love, using the metaphor of smoke to describe the tears and confusion that follow a romantic loss. The line “When a lovely flame dies, smoke gets in your eyes” poignantly captures the lingering pain of lost love. Williams’ lead vocals are characterized by a smooth, expressive quality, conveying a deep sense of melancholy and longing.

Musically, The Platters’ rendition features a lush orchestration with sweeping strings and a gentle piano accompaniment. The arrangement emphasizes the song’s emotional depth, providing a dramatic backdrop for the group’s harmonious vocals. The Platters’ interpretation of the song was innovative at the time, as it bridged the gap between traditional pop standards and the emerging sounds of rhythm and blues.

“Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” achieved significant commercial success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1959. The song’s popularity helped solidify The Platters’ status as one of the leading vocal groups of their time. It also resonated with a wide audience, transcending racial and musical boundaries in a period of significant cultural change in the United States.

The song’s enduring appeal lies in its timeless melody, evocative lyrics, and the emotional depth of The Platters’ performance. It has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, continuing to captivate new generations of listeners.

In summary, The Platters‘ “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” is a quintessential example of mid-20th century pop music, blending classical and contemporary elements with heartfelt emotion. With its lush orchestration, memorable melody, and Tony Williams’ powerful vocal performance, the song remains a beloved classic in the American songbook.

Video

Lyrics

“Smoke Gets in Your Eyes”