In 1950, Bing Crosby released the heartfelt ballad So Rare, which remains a timeless classic to this day. Featuring lush orchestration and Crosby’s signature smooth vocals, the song is a standout track on his album of the same name. Written by Jerry Herst and Jack Sharpe, So Rare explores themes of love, longing, and the rarity of true romance. In this blog post, we invite you to delve deeper into the meaning behind the lyrics, unravel the song’s hidden messages, and uncover the enduring impact of this iconic piece of music. Join us as we dissect the emotional depth and artistic brilliance of So Rare by Bing Crosby.
Verse-by-Verse Analysis
Verse 1:
The main theme of this verse is the rarity and uniqueness of a special person or experience. The artist portrays a sense of wonder and awe at encountering something exceptional. The use of the metaphor like a star in a sky of lesser lights conveys the idea of standing out and being one of a kind. This metaphor emphasizes the special nature of the subject being described.
The repetition of the word rare throughout the verse highlights the rarity and value of the person or experience being described. The artist is expressing a sense of gratitude and appreciation for having encountered something so special.
This verse sets the tone for the rest of the song by establishing the theme of uniqueness and rarity.
Verse 2:
In this verse, the artist continues to emphasize the exceptional qualities of the subject. The use of the simile like a diamond in a world so plain conveys the idea of brilliance and exceptional beauty.
The repetition of the phrase so rare throughout the verse reinforces the message of the song and reinforces the idea of appreciating the unique and special aspects of life.
This verse builds on the theme established in the first verse and further highlights the value of rarity and uniqueness.
Overall Message:
Through the analysis of the individual verses, it is clear that the artist is expressing a deep appreciation for the rare and exceptional aspects of life. The song conveys a message of gratitude for encountering something truly unique and special. The recurring themes of rarity and uniqueness tie the verses together and emphasize the importance of recognizing and valuing the exceptional qualities in the world around us.
The overall message of the song is to cherish and celebrate the rare and extraordinary moments, people, and experiences that make life special and meaningful.
Chorus Analysis
Introduce the chorus:
The chorus lyrics of So Rare by Bing Crosby are:
So rare, you’re like the fragrance of blossoms fair
Sweet as a breath of air fresh with the morning dew
So rare, you have the warmth of a genial sun
You’re so rare, you’re like the sparkle of old champagne
Orchids in cellophane couldn’t compare to you
You are perfection, you’re my idea of angels singing the Ave Maria
These chorus lyrics differ from the verses in the song by their musical structure and melodic progression. The chorus serves as a refrain that is repeated after each verse, providing a sense of continuity and emphasis on the central theme of the song.
Central theme or message:
The primary emotion conveyed in the chorus is admiration and adoration for the subject of the song. The lyrics describe the person being sung about as extraordinary, rare, and perfect. The choice of words such as fragrance, warmth, and sparkle paints a vivid picture of someone who is truly exceptional and unmatched.
The repetition of the phrase you’re so rare throughout the chorus reinforces the central theme of uniqueness and specialness. The imagery of blossoms, morning dew, champagne, and angels singing the Ave Maria further highlights the exceptional qualities of the person being described.
Relationship between the chorus and verses:
The chorus complements and builds upon the themes presented in the verses by providing a direct expression of the singer’s feelings towards the subject. It serves as a bridge between the descriptive verses and the emotional core of the song, tying together the elements of admiration and reverence.
By repeating the chorus after each verse, the song gains a sense of completeness and cohesion, with the chorus serving as a resolution to the preceding lyrics. The chorus acts as a unifying force that brings together the various narratives and emotions presented in the song.
Overall significance of the chorus:
The chorus of So Rare plays a crucial role in conveying the song’s central theme of admiration and adoration. It enhances the song’s memorability and emotional impact by repeating the key message of uniqueness and perfection.
The chorus’s evocative imagery and heartfelt declarations might resonate with listeners on a personal level, eliciting feelings of love, appreciation, or nostalgia. The chorus effectively communicates Bing Crosby’s intended message of celebrating the exceptional qualities of a loved one, making the song relatable and heartfelt to the target audience.
Cultural Context and Influences
Understanding the cultural, historical, and personal influences behind a song can provide deeper insights into its meaning and significance. In the case of So Rare by Bing Crosby, several key influences shape the song’s message and impact on listeners.
Cultural Influences
The cultural landscape of the 1950s, when So Rare was released, was marked by a sense of nostalgia and romanticism. The song reflects the cultural shift towards sentimental and heartfelt music that resonated with audiences during this period. The lyrics evoke a sense of yearning and longing, capturing the emotional complexities of love and loss that were prevalent themes in popular culture at the time.
Historical Influences
Historically, the post-World War II era filled with a longing for simplicity and stability, which is echoed in the song’s themes of love and devotion. The optimism and hopefulness of the time are reflected in the song’s optimistic tone and the belief in the enduring power of love.
Personal Influences
Bing Crosby’s personal experiences and beliefs likely influenced the creation of So Rare. As a beloved crooner known for his smooth vocals and heartfelt delivery, Crosby’s own emotions and perspectives on love undoubtedly shaped the song’s authenticity and emotional impact.
Synthesizing the Influences
By examining how the cultural, historical, and personal influences intersect in So Rare, listeners can gain a more comprehensive interpretation of the song’s meaning and significance. Understanding these influences enriches the listener’s appreciation of the song and highlights its lasting impact on popular music.
Exploring the context and influences behind other songs can similarly deepen one’s understanding of their meaning and significance, inviting a more profound connection with the music.
The Meaning Behind ‘So Rare’ by Bing Crosby
In conclusion, Bing Crosby’s song So Rare holds a deep and poignant meaning that resonates with listeners even today. The lyrics speak of a love that is truly special and rare, capturing the essence of a once-in-a-lifetime connection between two people. Crosby’s smooth vocals and the dreamy orchestration create a nostalgic and romantic atmosphere that is both timeless and enchanting. Through this song, Crosby brings to life the feeling of finding something precious and unique in a world full of ordinary things. So Rare serves as a reminder to cherish those rare moments of love and happiness that come our way and to hold onto them tightly. It is a beautiful tribute to the rarity and beauty of true love.