Introduction
Barbra Streisand is a legendary American singer, actress, and filmmaker who has won numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to the entertainment industry. One of her most iconic songs is “Don’t Rain On My Parade” from the musical “Funny Girl”. In this article, we will explore the lyrics of this timeless classic and what they mean.
Verse 1
The song begins with the lyrics, “Don’t tell me not to live, just sit and putter”. This line sets the tone for the rest of the song, as it expresses the protagonist’s determination to live life on her own terms and not be held back by others. The next lines, “Life’s candy and the sun’s a ball of butter”, evoke a sense of joy and positivity, as if the protagonist is relishing in the simple pleasures of life.
Chorus
The chorus of the song is perhaps the most memorable and uplifting part. It goes, “Don’t rain on my parade, don’t tell me not to fly. I’ve simply got to march, my heart’s a drummer. Nobody, no, nobody is gonna rain on my parade”. These lyrics are a declaration of independence and self-confidence, as the protagonist asserts her right to pursue her dreams and passions, no matter what others may say or do.
Verse 2
In the second verse, the protagonist continues to express her determination and resilience. She sings, “I’ll march my band out, I’ll beat my drum. And if I’m fanned out, your turn at bat, sir”. These lines suggest that the protagonist is ready to face any challenges or obstacles that may come her way, and that she will not back down easily. She also challenges others to try and bring her down, confident in her ability to withstand their attacks.
Chorus (Reprise)
The chorus is repeated again, with even more passion and conviction than before. The protagonist sings, “I gotta fly once, I gotta try once, only can die once, right, sir?”. These lyrics suggest that life is too short to hold back or play it safe, and that one must take risks and pursue their dreams while they still can.
Conclusion
“Don’t Rain On My Parade” is a timeless classic that has inspired and uplifted generations of listeners. Its message of independence, self-confidence, and resilience is as relevant today as it was when it was first written. Barbra Streisand’s iconic performance of the song has cemented its place in the annals of American popular culture, and it continues to be a beloved favorite of audiences around the world.
