Don’t Rain On My Parade is a popular song that has been covered by numerous artists over the years. The original version was sung by Barbra Streisand, but it has also been performed by the likes of Judy Garland, Shirley Bassey, and Lea Michele. In this article, we will take a closer look at the lyrics of this iconic song.
Verse 1
The first verse of Don’t Rain On My Parade sets the tone for the rest of the song. It is a defiant declaration of independence and determination. The lyrics go:
Don’t tell me not to live
Just sit and putter
Life’s candy and the sun’s
A ball of butter
Don’t bring around a cloud
To rain on my parade
This verse is all about taking control of your own life and not letting anyone else dictate how you should live it. The line “Life’s candy and the sun’s a ball of butter” is a metaphor for the good things in life, and the phrase “Don’t bring around a cloud to rain on my parade” is a metaphor for negativity and naysayers.
Chorus
The chorus of Don’t Rain On My Parade is one of the most iconic in musical theater. It is a powerful expression of confidence and self-assurance. The lyrics go:
I’m gonna live and live now
Get what I want, I know how
One roll for the whole shebang
One throw, that bell will go clang
Eye on the target and wham
One shot, one gun shot, and bam!
Hey, Mr. Arnstein, here I am!
This chorus is all about taking risks and going after what you want in life. The line “One roll for the whole shebang, one throw, that bell will go clang” is a metaphor for taking one big chance and hoping it pays off. The line “eye on the target and wham, one shot, one gun shot, and bam!” is a metaphor for focusing on your goal and hitting it dead-on.
Verse 2
The second verse of Don’t Rain On My Parade is a continuation of the first, but with a slightly different tone. It is more reflective and introspective. The lyrics go:
I’ll march my band out
I’ll beat my drum
And if I’m fanned out
Your turn at bat, sir
At least I didn’t fake it
Hat, sir, I guess I didn’t make it
This verse is all about owning your failures and shortcomings. The line “At least I didn’t fake it” is a reference to the fact that the speaker tried their best, even if they didn’t succeed. The phrase “Your turn at bat, sir” is a metaphor for giving someone else a chance to try and succeed where you failed.
Bridge
The bridge of Don’t Rain On My Parade is a triumphant call to action. It is a reminder that no matter what obstacles come your way, you can overcome them. The lyrics go:
Nobody, no, nobody
Is gonna rain on my parade!
This bridge is all about standing up for yourself and being confident in your abilities. The repeated use of the word “nobody” emphasizes the fact that no one else can control your life or your destiny.
Conclusion
Don’t Rain On My Parade is a timeless song that continues to inspire people all over the world. Its message of self-determination and perseverance is as relevant today as it was when it was first written. So the next time you’re feeling down or discouraged, just remember the words of this iconic song: “Nobody, no, nobody is gonna rain on my parade!”
