About the song
“Chances Are,” a timeless classic penned by Robert Allen and Al Stillman, resonates as a poignant emblem of 1950s pop music. Released in 1957, this soulful ballad swiftly captivated audiences, solidifying its place as one of Johnny Mathis’s signature songs. Its lyrical depth and emotive melody struck a chord with listeners, earning it a prominent spot on Billboard charts and subsequently securing its induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998.
From its initial release, “Chances Are” enjoyed notable commercial success, peaking at No. 4 on Billboard’s Best Sellers chart. Paired with “The Twelfth of Never” on the flip side, the single became a staple in Mathis’s repertoire, eventually finding a home on his celebrated compilation album, “Johnny’s Greatest Hits,” which achieved gold status in 1959. Across the border in Canada, the song also achieved significant acclaim, reaching the top echelons of the CHUM Charts.
Beyond its initial release, “Chances Are” continued to weave its way into the fabric of pop culture. Its enduring appeal is evident through various re-recordings and adaptations over the years. Notably, Mathis revisited the song in 1996, collaborating with Liza Minnelli for her album “Gently,” imbuing the track with a fresh, contemporary allure while preserving its nostalgic essence.
Moreover, “Chances Are” made notable appearances in popular media, adding to its cultural legacy. Its inclusion in the iconic film “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” and an episode of “American Dad” underscore its enduring relevance and widespread recognition.
The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless themes of love and uncertainty, delivered through Mathis’s velvet-smooth vocals and the songwriting prowess of Allen and Stillman. Its ability to evoke heartfelt emotions and resonate across generations reaffirms its status as a classic in the American musical landscape.
In conclusion, “Chances Are” stands as a testament to the enduring power of well-crafted songwriting and evocative performance. Its journey from 1950s chart-topper to Grammy Hall of Fame inductee is a testament to its lasting impact on listeners and its rightful place among the pantheon of timeless pop standards.
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Lyrics
Chances are ’cause I wear a silly grin
The moment you come into view
Chances are you think that I’m in love with you
Just because my composure sort of slips
The moment that your lips meet mine
Chances are you think my heart’s your Valentine
In the magic of moonlight when I sigh, hold me close, dear
Chances are you believe the stars that fill the skies are in my eyes
Guess you feel you’ll always be the one and only one for me
And if you think you could
Well, chances are your chances are awfully good
Chances are you believe the stars that fill the skies are in my eyes
Guess you feel you’ll always be the one and only one for me
And if you think you could
Well, chances are your chances are awfully good
The chances are your chances are awfully good