About the song
**Perry Como’s** rendition of “Killing Me Softly with Her Song” is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of listeners for decades. The song’s poignant lyrics and Como’s velvety vocals create a truly unforgettable listening experience.
Originally written by Lori Lieberman in 1971, the song was inspired by her observation of a young man in a coffee shop, deeply moved by the lyrics of a song he was listening to. Lieberman’s heartfelt lyrics, coupled with her soulful melody, resonated with audiences and quickly became a hit. However, it was Perry Como’s cover version in 1973 that truly propelled the song to iconic status.
Como’s interpretation of “Killing Me Softly with Her Song” is characterized by his warm and intimate vocal style. His rich baritone voice effortlessly conveys the song’s emotional depth and vulnerability. Como’s delivery is both understated and powerful, allowing the lyrics to shine through.
The song’s lyrics explore the profound impact of music on the human experience. The narrator describes witnessing someone being deeply touched by a song, and the emotional connection they form with the lyrics. The song’s message is universal, resonating with anyone who has ever felt a strong emotional connection to music.
The song’s arrangement is simple yet effective, featuring a gentle piano accompaniment and subtle strings. The instrumentation serves to enhance the song’s emotional impact without overpowering the vocals. The arrangement creates a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, drawing the listener into the song’s world.
“Killing Me Softly with Her Song” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, each offering their own unique interpretation. However, Como’s version remains the definitive recording. His performance captures the essence of the song’s message and showcases his exceptional vocal abilities.
In conclusion, “Killing Me Softly with Her Song” is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences. Perry Como’s rendition of the song is a masterpiece of vocal artistry, showcasing his ability to convey emotion and connect with listeners on a deep level. The song’s message about the power of music remains as relevant today as it was when it was first released.
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Lyrics
I heard she sang a good song
I heard she had a style
And so I came to see her
And listen for a while
And there she was this young girl
A stranger to my eyes
Strumming my pain with her fingers
Singing my life with her words
Killing me softly with her song
Killing me softly with her song
Telling my whole life with her words
Killing me softly with her song
I felt all flushed with fever, embarrassed by the crowd
I felt she found my letters and read each one out loud
I prayed that she would finish
But she just kept right on
Strumming my pain with her fingers
Singing my life with her words
Killing me softly with her song
Killing me softly with her song
Telling my whole life with her words
Killing me softly with her song
She sang as if she knew me in all my dark despair
And then she looked right through me as if I wasn’t there
But she was there the stranger
Singing clear and strong
Strumming my pain with her fingers
Singing my life with her words
Killing me softly with her song
Killing me softly with her song
Telling my whole life with her words
Killing me softly with her song
Killing me softly, with her song