About the song
“Straighten Up and Fly Right” is a lively and iconic song that was given a memorable rendition by The Andrews Sisters, one of the most successful female vocal groups of the 1940s. The song, originally written by Nat King Cole and Irving Mills in 1943, is rooted in the jazz and swing traditions that dominated the music scene during that era.
The Andrews Sisters, known for their close harmonies and infectious energy, brought a unique flair to “Straighten Up and Fly Right” when they recorded it. Their version of the song captures the spirit of the time, combining the upbeat rhythm of swing music with their signature vocal blend, which had already made them stars with hits like “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” and “Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree.”
The lyrics of “Straighten Up and Fly Right” are inspired by a folk tale that Nat King Cole’s father used in his sermons, which tells the story of a monkey and a buzzard. The song uses this allegory to deliver a message about staying on the right path and avoiding trouble. With lines like “Straighten up and fly right / Cool down, papa, don’t you blow your top,” the song cleverly conveys a lesson in a light-hearted and engaging way, typical of the music from that period.
When The Andrews Sisters recorded “Straighten Up and Fly Right,” they infused the song with their characteristic vitality. Their harmonies, tight and vibrant, brought a fresh dimension to the tune, making it a favorite among their fans. The sisters’ version of the song also highlighted their ability to adapt to different musical styles while maintaining their distinct sound.
The timing of this release during the 1940s was particularly significant, as America was in the midst of World War II. Music served as a source of comfort and morale for both the troops overseas and those on the home front. Songs like “Straighten Up and Fly Right,” with its upbeat tempo and positive message, provided a sense of optimism and resilience during challenging times.
Over the years, “Straighten Up and Fly Right” has become a standard in the jazz and swing repertoire, covered by many artists, but The Andrews Sisters’ version remains a standout. Their rendition not only showcases their exceptional vocal talent but also reflects the enduring appeal of their music.
For listeners of that era and those discovering the song today, The Andrews Sisters’ “Straighten Up and Fly Right” is a delightful reminder of the power of music to uplift and inspire. The song’s catchy rhythm, clever lyrics, and spirited performance by The Andrews Sisters ensure its place as a timeless piece in the annals of American music history.
Video
Lyrics
A buzzard took a monkey for a ride in the air
The monkey thought that everything was on the square
The buzzard tried to throw the monkey off of his back
But the monkey grabbed its neck and said, “Now listen, Jack”
Straighten up and fly right
Straighten up and fly right
Straighten up and fly right
Cool down, Papa, don’t you blow your top
Ain’t no use in divin’
What’s the use of jivin’?
Straighten up and fly right
Cool down, Papa, don’t you blow your top
The buzzard told the monkey, “You are chokin’ me”
“Release your hold and I will set you free”
The monkey looked the buzzard right dead in the eye
And said, “Your story’s so touching, it sounds just like a lie
Straighten up and fly right
Straighten up and stay right
Straighten up and fly right
Cool down, papa, don’t you blow your top
The buzzard told the monkey, “You are chokin’ me”
“Release your hold and I will set you free”
The monkey looked the buzzard right dead in the eye
And said, “Your story’s so touching, it sounds just like a lie”
Straighten up and fly right
Straighten up and stay right
Straighten up and fly right
Cool down, Papa, don’t you blow your top
Straighten up and fly right
Straighten up and stay right
Straighten up and fly right
Cool down, Papa, don’t you blow your top