About the song
When it comes to classic standards reimagined through a modern lens, Carly Simon’s interpretation of “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” is a remarkable example. Originally penned by the legendary Cole Porter in 1936, this song has been a beloved fixture in the jazz and pop music lexicon. Carly Simon’s version, released in 1981 on her album Torch, offers a fresh and sophisticated take on this timeless piece.
“I’ve Got You Under My Skin” is renowned for its lush melody and intricate lyrics, which explore the irresistible nature of love and attraction. Porter’s composition is a masterclass in lyrical elegance and musicality, and Simon’s rendition honors this heritage while infusing it with her unique style. Her version stands out for its blend of jazz sophistication and pop sensibility, a testament to her versatility as an artist.
In Simon’s hands, the song transforms into an intimate experience. Her voice, with its warm and resonant timbre, delivers the lyrics with a blend of passion and subtlety. The arrangement is both respectful of the original and innovative, featuring a rich orchestral backdrop that complements Simon’s vocal performance without overshadowing it. This balance allows the song’s emotional depth to shine through, capturing the complex feelings of love and longing that Porter so expertly conveyed.
Carly Simon’s “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” not only pays homage to a classic but also introduces it to a new generation of listeners. For those who appreciate both the tradition of jazz standards and the artistry of contemporary performers, Simon’s version offers a delightful and evocative listening experience. It’s a beautiful reminder of how great songs can be reinvigorated and remain relevant across the decades, resonating with audiences through their enduring themes and timeless melodies.
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Lyrics
I’ve got you under my skin
I’ve got you deep in the heart of me
So deep in my heart, you’re really a part of me
I’ve got you under my skin
I’d tried so not to give in
I said to myself this affair never will go so well
But why should I try to resist when, baby, I know so well
That I’ve got you under my skin?
I’d sacrifice anything come what might
For the sake of havin’ you near
In spite of a warnin’ voice that comes in the night
And repeats and repeats in my ear
Don’t you know, little fool, you never can win?
Use your mentality, wake up to reality
But each time that I do just the thought of you
Makes me stop before I begin
‘Cause I’ve got you under my skin
I’d sacrifice anything come what might
For the sake of havin’ you near
In spite of the warning voice that comes in the night
And repeats, how it yells in my ear
Don’t you know, little fool, you never can win?
Why not use your mentality, wake up to reality?
But each time that I do just the thought of you
Makes me stop just before I begin
‘Cause I’ve got you under my skin
‘Cause I’ve got you under my skin
Yeah, I’ve got you under my skin
Sure enough I do, baby
Sure enough I do