About the song
Let’s step back into the enchanting world of mid-20th-century jazz with “One Note Samba,” a delightful collaboration between Dean Martin and Caterina Valente. This song, originally composed by the legendary Brazilian musician Antonio Carlos Jobim with lyrics by Newton Mendonça, found its way into the hearts of listeners when Martin and Valente lent their talents to it.
Released during the early 1960s, “One Note Samba” was featured on Dean Martin’s album “Dino Latino,” which showcased his smooth vocals and ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles. Caterina Valente, known for her multilingual vocal prowess and versatility, added a sophisticated flair to the duet, creating a harmonious blend of American jazz and Brazilian bossa nova.
The song’s title refers to its playful melody, where Jobim famously constructs a tune using essentially one musical note in the beginning, gradually adding complexity and rhythm as it progresses. This clever musical structure, combined with Martin and Valente’s charismatic delivery, made “One Note Samba” a standout track on the album.
In terms of chart performance, “One Note Samba” didn’t reach the top positions on mainstream charts but garnered significant acclaim within jazz and easy listening circles. Its enduring appeal lies in its timeless melody, infectious rhythm, and the effortless chemistry between Martin and Valente, two icons of their era.
Through their interpretation of “One Note Samba,” Dean Martin and Caterina Valente showcased their ability to infuse warmth and elegance into every note, making it a memorable piece in the mosaic of their illustrious careers. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or discovering this gem anew, the magic of “One Note Samba” continues to captivate listeners with its enchanting charm and timeless allure.
Video
Lyrics
This is just a little samba
Built upon a single note
Other notes are bound to follow
But the root is still that note
Now this new one is the consequence
Of the one we’ve just been through
As I’m bound to be the unavoidable
consequence of you
There’s so many people who can
talk and talk and talk
And just say nothing
Or nearly nothing
I have used up all the scale I know
And at the end I’ve come to nothing
Or nearly nothing
So I came back to my first note
As I must come back to you
I will pour into that one note
All the love I feel for you
Anyone who wants the whole show
Re mi fa sol la si do
He will find himself with no show
Better play the note you know