About the song
“Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)” is more than just a catchy tune. It’s a philosophy woven into a melody, a message that has resonated with audiences for over six decades. Composed by the songwriting duo of Jay Livingston and Ray Evans, the song debuted in 1955 and found its perfect introduction in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1956 film “The Man Who Knew Too Much.” Sung by the iconic Doris Day, “Que Sera, Sera” became a beacon of hope for her on-screen son amidst a kidnapping ordeal.
The song’s brilliance lies in its simplicity. Each verse chronicles a stage in the narrator’s life – childhood innocence, the throes of young love, and eventually, parenthood. Each verse concludes with a poignant question: “What will I be?” or “What lies ahead?” The powerful chorus provides the comforting answer: “What will be, will be.” It’s a gentle lullaby, a reminder to embrace the unknown with a touch of optimism and a dash of acceptance.
Doris Day’s rendition of the song propelled it to immense popularity. It soared to number two on the Billboard charts and became her signature song. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences recognized its brilliance, awarding it the 1956 Oscar for Best Original Song. “Que Sera, Sera” continues to be celebrated, inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2012 and securing a place on AFI’s prestigious list of top tunes in American cinema.
However, the song’s title phrase, “que sera, sera,” holds an interesting linguistic history. While its Spanish-like spelling suggests Latin origins, the phrase is actually a product of English wordplay. The closest equivalent in Spanish would be “lo que será, será.” The phrase’s true roots can be traced back to the 16th century, appearing as an English heraldic motto. It even found its way into the works of literary giants like Christopher Marlowe.
“Que Sera, Sera” transcends language barriers. The song’s message of acceptance and its catchy melody have resonated with audiences worldwide, influencing countless translations and inspiring countless ventures named after its iconic title. From its Hitchcockian beginnings to its enduring cultural impact, “Que Sera, Sera” remains a testament to the power of music to soothe the soul and provide solace in the face of the unknown.
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Lyrics
When I was just a little girl
I asked my mother
What will I be
Will I be pretty
Will I be richHere’s what she said to me
Que sera, sera
Whatever will be, will be
The future’s not ours to see
Que sera, sera
What will be, will beWhen I grow up and fall in love
I’ll ask my sweetheart
What lies ahead
Will there be rainbow day after day
Here’s what he’ll say to meQue sera, sera
Whatever will be, will be
The future’s not ours to see
Que sera, sera
What will be, will beWhen I have children of my own
They’ll ask their mother
What will I be
Will I be pretty
Will I be rich
I’ll tell them tenderlyQue sera, sera
Whatever will be, will be
The future’s not ours to see
Que sera, sera
What will be, will be
Que Sera, Sera