Bei Mir Bist Du Shoen (1932)

Written and composed in 1932, "Bei Mir Bistu Shein" was a Jewish showtune originally written in Yiddish. It proved extremely popular and was recorded by many famous artists including Al Bowlly, Benny Goodman, Guy Lombardo, Ella Fitzgerald, the Andrews Sisters, Kate Smith and in more recent times, the incomparable Max Raabe Und Das Palast Orchester. The song was also called "Bei Mir Bist Du Shoen" in German (the title used in this video). Its English title is translated as "To Me, You're Beautiful".

Such was the song's popularity that in 1937, the original Jewish songwriter and composer authorised the song's translation into English.

Although highly popular throughout the Western world, the song was banned in Germany during the Nazi era due to its Jewish connections.

Lyrics (the English ones!):

INTRO:

Of all the girls I've known, and I've known some,
Until I first met you, I was lonesome,
But then you came in sight,
And my heart grew light,
And this old world seemed new to me.

You're really swell, I have to admit you...
...Deserve expressions that really fit you,
And so I rack my brain,
Hoping to explain,
All the things that you do to me,

CHORUS:

Bei Mir Bist Du Shoen,
Please let me explain,
Bei Mir Bist Du Shoen,
Means that you're grand!

Again I'll explain,
Bei Mir Bist Du Shoen,
It means you're the fairest in the land!

I could say 'Bella! Bella!', even say 'Wunderbar!',
Each language only helps me tell you,
How grand you are!

I've tried to explain,
Bei Mir Bist Du Shoen,
So kiss me, and say you'll understand!

N.B.: Even though I've used the German translation of the title, 'Shoen' is still pronounced as 'Shein' (to rhyme with 'rain') in order to fit into the song.

Also, no, I don't have the sheet-music for this song. As is the case with a lot of old jazz-pop songs, sheet-music can be difficult to find. I worked this out entirely by ear. I am very happy to tell you which keys you have to press on the piano, though.

Category:

Music

Tags:

• Bei
• Mir
• Bist
• Du
• Shoen
• Bistu
• Shein

[geran1991]

Very nice Shahan, nice to see you uploading again :)

[Shangas]

@geran1991 Hey Geran. Nice to see you still alive. Yes I haven't had much time for recording of late, what with real life intervening. Had a couple of hours free to post this.

[Tomken8d2]

You're a good performer.

You realize you're not just playing the piano?

You're performing before an audience.