The classic song "Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)" has been a beloved standard for many generations. Written by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans, the song was first recorded by Doris Day for the Alfred Hitchcock film The Man Who Knew Too Much in 1956. Ever since then, it has been a favorite among people of all ages. Let’s take a closer look at the history of this timeless classic and the meaning behind its lyrics.
Que Sera, Sera: A History
The song was written by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans in 1956 for the Alfred Hitchcock film The Man Who Knew Too Much. Livingston and Evans had already had a few successes in the music industry prior to writing the song. The song was originally offered to Doris Day, who was already an established star at the time. She agreed to record the song, and it went on to become one of her most beloved and recognizable hits.
The song was an instant success, reaching the top of the Billboard charts in both the US and the UK. It was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song. It has since become a beloved standard, covered by various artists throughout the years, including Johnny Mathis, Andy Williams, and even the Muppets.
The Meaning Behind the Lyrics
The lyrics of the song express a feeling of optimism and trust in the future, no matter what may come. The chorus of the song states, “Que sera, sera / Whatever will be, will be / The future’s not ours to see / Que sera, sera.” This expresses a sense of trust that whatever will happen in the future will happen for the best, and that worrying about what the future may bring is unnecessary.
The lyrics of the song also express a sense of contentment with the present. The verse states, “When I was just a little girl / I asked my mother, what will I be? / Will I be handsome? Will I be rich? / Here’s what she said to me.” This expresses the idea that the most important thing is to be content with who you are in the present, rather than worrying about the future.
"Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)" is a timeless classic that has been beloved for generations. Its optimistic and contented message is sure to remain relevant for many years to come.
