Song Spotlight: “Come Fly With Me”

Come Fly With Me - Song Spotlight | SoundscapingSource.com
  • Theme: Flying, Travel, Romance
  • Mood: Upbeat
  • Genre: 1950s easy listening

Ask anyone of a certain age about their favorite musicians, and there’s a decent chance they’ll name Frank Sinatra.

Born in December 1915, the son of Italian immigrants, Frank Sinatra made his mark as a singer, actor, arranger, producer, and director. He was one of the most influential American musicians of the 20th century, with a career spanning nearly six decades, even though he never learned how to read music.

It may be hard to believe that Sinatra was first known as a clean-cut teen heartthrob, because by the prime years of his career in the late 1950s, Sinatra was known for his turbulent love life, alleged Mafia ties, and wild nights with the Rat Pack.

In the song “Come Fly With Me,” from the 1958 album of the same name, Sinatra invites the listener to “come fly with me” to exotic locations like Peru and Acapulco Bay, enjoying the freedom and romance of being up above the world. This song demonstrates the iconic style of Sinatra’s golden years, with an easy swing, a romantic subject, and just a hint of Rat Pack wildness (“If you could use some exotic booze, there’s a bar in far Bombay”).

Try This:

As one of Sinatra’s signature songs, just playing a recording of “Come Fly With Me” invites discussion about Sinatra’s life and music. In addition, you can use this song to support other kinds of musical experiences:

Movement to Music

From the first notes of the melody, this song just sounds like freedom. Play the recording in music groups, inviting participants to stretch their arms out wide like an airplane. (Note: The music makes this hard to resist.) You can also follow the melody line to reach arms high with the words, “once I get you up there.” In between, mix in some rhythmic movement to movement, tapping toes and clapping hands.

Discuss Travel Experiences

This song also came during a time when air travel was exotic in itself. Invite participants to talk about their experiences with air travel and the far-flung destinations they’ve been to. You may be surprised at the places some folks have seen.

Show Photos

In addition to talking about travel, you can show photos of air travel in the 1950s and of the exotic locations mentioned in the song (that is, Bombay, Acapulco Bay, and Peru.)

Sinatra’s iconic song about flying away can provide an escape and an opportunity for people to share their own experiences.

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