About the song
“Don’t Fence Me In” is an iconic American song that was popularized by Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters in the 1940s. This classic tune, written by the legendary Cole Porter, with lyrics by Robert Fletcher, captures the spirit of the American West with its theme of freedom and wide-open spaces.
The song was originally written for a 1934 movie that was never made, but it found its true success a decade later during World War II. Bing Crosby, one of the most popular crooners of the time, teamed up with The Andrews Sisters, who were known for their close harmonies and energetic performances. Their version of “Don’t Fence Me In” was recorded in 1944 and quickly became a massive hit, resonating with audiences across the country.
The lyrics of “Don’t Fence Me In” speak to the longing for freedom and the desire to roam freely without restrictions. Phrases like “Oh, give me land, lots of land under starry skies above, don’t fence me in,” evoke images of the vast, untamed landscapes of the American frontier. For many, especially during the war years, the song represented a form of escapism, a reminder of the freedom and independence that were at the heart of the American identity.
The collaboration between Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters was a perfect match for this song. Crosby’s smooth, laid-back vocal style blended seamlessly with the Sisters’ bright and lively harmonies, creating a version of the song that is still celebrated today. The recording was a major success, topping the charts and becoming one of the best-selling songs of the era.
“Don’t Fence Me In” also holds a special place in the cultural history of the United States. It has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and even commercials over the years, reinforcing its status as a timeless American standard. The song’s message of freedom and the open road continues to resonate with listeners of all ages.
In summary, “Don’t Fence Me In” by Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters is more than just a song; it’s a symbol of the American spirit. The combination of Cole Porter’s masterful songwriting and the exceptional performances of Crosby and The Andrews Sisters has ensured that this song remains a beloved classic. Whether you’re a fan of traditional pop, American standards, or simply appreciate music that captures the essence of a bygone era, “Don’t Fence Me In” is a song that continues to inspire and delight.
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Lyrics
Oh, give me land, lots of land under starry skies above,
Don’t fence me in.
Let me ride through the wide open country that I love,
Don’t fence me in.
Let me be by myself in the evenin’ breeze,
And listen to the murmur of the cottonwood trees,
Send me off forever but I ask you please,
Don’t fence me in.
Just turn me loose, let me straddle my old saddle
Underneath the western skies.
On my Cayuse, let me wander over yonder
‘Till I see the mountains rise.
I want to ride to the ridge where the west commences
And gaze at the moon ’till I lose my senses
And I can’t look at hovels and I can’t stand fences
Don’t fence me in.
Oh, give me land, lots of land under starry skies,
Don’t fence me in.
Let me ride through the wide open country that I love,
Don’t fence me in.
Let me be by myself in the evenin’ breeze
And listen to the murmur of the cottonwood trees
Send me off forever but I ask you please,
Don’t fence me in
Just turn me loose, let me straddle my old saddle
Underneath the western skies
On my Cayuse, let me wander over yonder
‘Till I see the mountains rise.
Ba boo ba ba boo.
I want to ride to the ridge where the west commences
And gaze at the moon ’till I lose my senses
And I can’t look at hobbles and I can’t stand fences
Don’t fence me in.
No.
Poppa, don’t you fence me in