Mam'selle: A Post-War Ballad's Journey Through Time
Exploring the origins, chart success, and cultural impact of a bittersweet melody that captured the post-war zeitgeist.
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Overview
A Bittersweet Melody
"Mam'selle" is a poignant song characterized by its bittersweet narrative, recounting a rendezvous with a "mam'selle" (a term for mademoiselle, or young lady) in an intimate café setting. The evocative music was composed by Edmund Goulding, with the poignant lyrics penned by Mack Gordon, creating a timeless piece that resonated deeply with audiences.
Cinematic Origins
The song's initial introduction to the public was through the 1947 film The Razor's Edge, starring Tyrone Power. In its original cinematic presentation, "Mam'selle" featured French lyrics and was also performed in an instrumental arrangement, hinting at its international appeal and versatility.
Background
Debut in "The Razor's Edge"
The song "Mam'selle" made its debut in the 1947 film adaptation of W. Somerset Maugham's novel, The Razor's Edge. Directed by Edmund Goulding, who also composed the music for the song, the film provided the initial platform for this melancholic yet charming piece. The inclusion of both French lyrics and an instrumental version within the film showcased the song's adaptability and thematic depth, setting the stage for its subsequent success in the music industry.
Chart Dominance in 1947
A Phenomenon in Popular Music
The year 1947 marked a significant period for "Mam'selle," with five distinct recordings achieving substantial success on the Billboard charts. This widespread popularity underscores the song's broad appeal across different vocal styles and record labels during the post-war era.
| Artist | Label | Peak Chart Position | Weeks on Chart | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Art Lund | MGM Records | #1 | 11 | Recorded February 20, 1947. |
| Dick Haymes | Decca Records | #4 | 8 | Recorded March 6, 1947. |
| Frank Sinatra | Columbia Records | #6 (Best Seller), #1 (Jockey) | 4 | Recorded March 11, 1947. Later re-recorded for the album Nice 'n' Easy (1960). |
| Dennis Day | RCA Victor Records | #8 | 5 | Released April 25, 1947. |
| The Pied Pipers | Capitol Records | #9 | 4 | Recorded March 14, 1947. |
| Frankie Laine | Mercury Records | N/A | N/A | A notable jazz rendition, distinguished by Lou Singer's vibraphone solo. |
Notable Recordings
Diverse Interpretations
Beyond the initial 1947 hits, "Mam'selle" has been interpreted by a wide array of artists across various genres, demonstrating its enduring appeal and adaptability. These recordings showcase different stylistic approaches, from R&B to barbershop harmony.
- The Ravens: Released a rendition as the A-side of their 1952 Okeh single.
- Vocal Spectrum: The 2006 Barbershop Harmony Society quartet champions recorded an arrangement on their debut CD.
- The Four Freshmen: Included the song on their 1955 album 4 Freshmen And 5 Trombones.
- The Hi-Lo's: Featured the song on their 1956 album On Hand.
- Johnny Hartman: Recorded a version for his 1959 album And I Thought About You.
- Ed Townsend: Included it on his 1959 album New In Town.
- Andy Williams: Released a version on his 1960 album Under Paris Skies.
- Dean Martin: Recorded the song for his 1962 album French Style.
- John Pizzarelli Trio: Featured it on their 1996 album After Hours.
Cultural Footprint
Cinematic Presence
The evocative atmosphere of "Mam'selle" found a place in film noir, notably appearing in the 1953 motion picture Pickup on South Street. In the film, the character Moe, portrayed by Thelma Ritter, plays the song on her phonograph within the intimate setting of her apartment, further cementing the song's association with a particular mood and era.
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Important Notice
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