If I Had You

Fred Elizalde, Al Bowlly

About If I Had You

"If I Had You" is a 1928 song by "Irving King" (Jimmy Campbell and Reg Connelly) with Ted Shapiro. Early hit versions in 1929 were by Rudy Vallée and Al Bowlly.


Year:
2007
2:52
90 

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I could show the world how to smile
I could be glad all of the while
I could change the grey skies to blues 
If I had you
I could leave the old days behind
Leave all my pals, I'd never mind
I could start my life all a new 
If I had you
I could climb the snow capped mountains
Sail the mighty ocean wide
I could cross the burning desert
If I had you by my side
I could be a king, dear, uncrowned
Humble or poor, rich or renowned
There is nothing I couldn't do 
If I had you
 
I could show the world how to smile
I could be glad all of the while
I could change the grey skies to blues 
If I had you
I could leave the old days behind
Leave all my pals, I'd never mind
I could start my life all a new 
If I had you
I could climb the snow capped mountains
Sail the mighty ocean wide
I could cross the burning desert
If I had you by my side
I could be a king, dear, uncrowned
Humble or poor, rich or renowned
There is nothing I couldn't do

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Al Bowlly

Albert Allick Bowlly (7 January 1898 – 17 April 1941) was a Southern-African singer, songwriter, composer and band leader, who became a popular jazz crooner during the British dance band era of the 1930s and later worked in the United States. He recorded more than 1,000 records between 1927 and 1941. His most popular songs include "Midnight, the Stars and You", "Goodnight, Sweetheart", "The Very Thought of You", "Guilty", and "Love Is the Sweetest Thing". more »

1 fan

Written by: GORDON MILLS

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Genre
"If I Had You" is a song in the genre of British dance band and jazz music. Al Bowlly's distinctive crooning style has influenced the development of popular music, particularly jazz and swing.
Era/Year
The song was recorded in 1928. This was a time when radio and record players were becoming widespread, and jazz music was gaining popularity across the UK and US.
Song's Origin
"If I Had You" was a British song written by Jimmy Campbell, Reg Connelly and Ted Shapiro. Al Bowlly recorded this song with Fred Elizalde's orchestra.
Importance in Artist's Career
This song is considered one of the most significant early hits in Al Bowlly's singing career. His sweet, smooth voice delivered the ballad's intimate and longing lyrics excellently.
Background of Singer
Al Bowlly was born in Mozambique to Greek and Lebanese parents, but he embarked on his singing career in London. He is considered one of the UK's first pop stars.
Historic Impact
"If I Had You" is considered a jazz standard. It has been covered by many prominent artists over the decades, including Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole among others, attesting to its enduring appeal.
Trivia about the Song
Despite the success of "If I Had You", Al Bowlly was not given song credit on the original release. This was fairly common in the music industry at the time, where the focus was often on the band rather than the vocalist.
Lyric Theme
The song lyrics express a desire for love and companionship, with the protagonist insisting that they could achieve anything "If I Had You". It’s a timeless theme that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Vocal Delivery
Al Bowlly's version of the song is noted for its relaxed, intimate delivery. His warm, emotive voice showcased his unique ability to make listeners feel as though he were singing just for them.
Legacy
Al Bowlly's rendition of "If I Had You" ensured that the song remained in public consciousness and has since become a treasured classic in the genre.

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