The timeless charm of Irving Berlin's "Sisters" from the classic musical film White Christmas. For those who have never experienced the joy of singing along with Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen in the iconic 1954 movie, let's dive into the world of lyrics, history, and cultural impact of this beloved song.
Lyrics to "Sisters" from White Christmas
Sisters, sisters There were never such devoted sisters Never had to have a chaperone, "No sir" I'm here to keep my eye on her Caring, sharing Every little thing that we are wearing When a certain gentleman arrived from Rome She wore the dress, and I stayed home
Sisters, sisters There were never such devoted sisters Never had to have a chaperone, "No sir" I'm here to keep my eye on her Caring, sharing Every little thing that we are wearing When a certain gentleman arrived from Rome She wore the dress, and I stayed home
Lord help the mister, who comes between me and my sister And Lord help the sister, who comes between me and my man
Unpacking the Lyrics
The lyrics, penned by Irving Berlin, are a playful reflection on sisterly love and rivalry. The song showcases the devoted yet competitive relationship between two sisters, Betty and Judy, as they sing about their closeness, shared experiences, and the occasional bout of sibling rivalry.
The opening lines highlight the sisters' unique bond, emphasizing their loyalty and dedication to each other. The verse about the gentleman from Rome adds a touch of humor, as the sisters seem to have a system in place for dealing with romantic interests. The song's central theme revolves around the idea that while the sisters may have their differences, their love and commitment to each other remain unwavering.
A Brief History of "Sisters" and White Christmas
White Christmas, directed by Michael Curtiz, is a musical romantic comedy starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen. Released in 1954, the film features an array of Irving Berlin's memorable songs, including the titular "White Christmas," "Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep," and, of course, "Sisters."
The movie follows the story of two soldiers-turned-entertainers, Bob Wallace (Bing Crosby) and Phil Davis (Danny Kaye), who team up with the Haynes sisters, Betty and Judy (Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen), to save their former commanding officer's failing ski resort.
The Cultural Impact of "Sisters"
"Sisters" has become an integral part of American pop culture, with its catchy melody and playful lyrics making it a beloved favorite among audiences. The song's themes of sisterly love, loyalty, and rivalry have resonated with generations of viewers, cementing its place in the pantheon of classic American musical numbers.
Over the years, "Sisters" has been covered by various artists, featured in numerous films and TV shows, and even parodied in comedy sketches. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless appeal of Irving Berlin's music and the indelible mark left by the iconic film White Christmas.
Legacy and Adaptations
"Sisters" has been covered by numerous artists, including Dean Martin, Ella Fitzgerald, and Peggy Lee, each adding their unique twist to the classic song. The song has also been featured in various films, TV shows, and stage productions, including the 2004 Broadway musical Irving Berlin's White Christmas.
In addition to its adaptations, "Sisters" has become a staple of holiday playlists and a popular choice for karaoke performances. Its catchy melody and lighthearted lyrics make it an ideal song for festive gatherings and celebrations.
Inspiration and Influence
"Sisters" has inspired countless other songs, films, and stage productions that celebrate the bond between siblings. The song's themes of loyalty, rivalry, and devotion have influenced a wide range of creative works, from musicals like Grease and Hairspray to films like The Parent Trap and Freaky Friday.
The song's impact can also be seen in the many sister acts that have followed in the footsteps of Betty and Judy Haynes. From The Andrews Sisters to The Pointer Sisters, the legacy of "Sisters" continues to inspire new generations of performers and entertainers.
Conclusion: A Timeless Tribute to Sisterly Love
"Sisters" from White Christmas remains an unforgettable classic, a testament to the enduring power of Irving Berlin's music and the indelible mark left by the iconic film. As we continue to enjoy and celebrate this beloved song, we are reminded of the importance of sibling bonds and the joy of shared experiences.
We invite you to share your favorite memories of "Sisters" and White Christmas in the comments below. Have you ever sung along with Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen? Do you have a special connection to the song or the film? Let's keep the conversation going!
Who wrote the lyrics to "Sisters"?
+The lyrics to "Sisters" were written by Irving Berlin.
In what film did "Sisters" originally appear?
+"Sisters" originally appeared in the 1954 film White Christmas, starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen.
What is the central theme of "Sisters"?
+The central theme of "Sisters" revolves around the idea of sisterly love, loyalty, and devotion, highlighting the unique bond between two sisters.