Song Spotlight: “Tiny Bubbles”

  • Mood: Light
  • Themes: Enjoying the Little things, Hawaii
  • Tempo: Moderate
  • Genre/Style: 60s popular standard

In this spotlight we explore “Tiny Bubbles,” as performed by Don Ho, a sweet tune that arrived on the music scene in the 60s that has since become a beloved standard. Try out some of the ideas for ways to use and share this light-hearted tune with others.

“Tiny Bubbles” was written by Leon Pober in 1966. Pober originally intended the song to be sung by the king of champagne music, Lawrence Welk, but upon Welk’s refusal, Pober offered the song to the up and coming artist of the time, Don Ho. It peaked at #14 on the Easy Listening chart and quickly became a widely covered song.

Within two years of its release, no fewer that 34 artists had produced cover versions, without signs of the song losing popularity. After the song had achieved success, even Welk began to play the tune on his television program. This did not go unnoticed by Don Ho: During a live recording of Tiny Bubbles, he said, “eat your heart out, Lawrence,” surely sparking some jealousy from the musician who passed on a hit song. 

Here are some of the lyrics:

Tiny bubbles (tiny bubbles)

In the wine (in the wine)

Make me happy (make me happy)

Make me feel fine (make me feel fine)

So here’s to the golden moon

And here’s to the silver sea

And mostly here’s a toast

To you and me

So here’s to the ginger lei

I give to you today

And here’s a kiss

That will not fade away

This is a great song to use within a group and would go well with a collection of songs about Hawaii or of of the week or songs based on enjoying the little things. It can be used as a transition into reminiscence, or as an opportunity for musical engagement or movement to music.

Try This:

Theme: This song would fit well into a Hawaii or Enjoying the Little Things theme.Other complementary songs may include “What a Wonderful World”, “Pearly Shells”, and,“Little Green Apples

Encourage the group to reminisce by inviting the group to share memories of a Hawaiian vacation or memories from their favorite trip they have taken. (If planned have them bring photos to share).

Discuss: Invite the group to discuss what are the little things in life that make days enjoyable.

Musical Engagement: follow along with the live video and participate in the calm and response Don Ho leads. 

Movement: You can do expressive movement along with this song, for added motion try scarves.

What is your favorite Don Ho tune? Please leave your comments below!

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