About the song
If you’re a fan of classic American music, chances are you’ve heard the soothing, velvety tones of Kay Starr. Her voice, with its unique blend of warmth and sophistication, has enchanted listeners for generations. And among her many hits, there’s one song that continues to resonate with audiences:”Side By Side”.
Released in the 1950s, a decade marked by significant social and cultural changes,”Side By Side” offered a comforting and familiar sound. Written by Harry Woods for the 1927 Broadway musical “The Little Show”, the song was given new life by Starr’s interpretation. Her rendition, with its rich jazz undertones and heartfelt delivery, captured the essence of the song’s message: the enduring power of love and companionship.
The lyrics of “Side By Side” paint a picture of a simple, yet fulfilling life. The recurring lines, “Oh, we ain’t got a barrel of money, Maybe we’re ragged and funny,” speak to the idea that true happiness isn’t dependent on material possessions. Instead, it’s found in the bonds we share with the people we love. This theme of companionship over wealth was particularly resonant in the 1950s, a time of both newfound freedoms and anxieties about the future.
Starr’s version of “Side By Side” became a beloved classic, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard charts. It was featured in her album “The Kay Starr Style,” which showcased her versatility as a singer. Whether she was performing a torchy ballad or a playful novelty number, Starr always brought a sense of warmth and authenticity to her music.
“Side By Side” remains a popular choice for those seeking a comforting and nostalgic listening experience. Its timeless message of love and companionship continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. The song’s enduring appeal is a testament to Starr’s talent as a singer and the universal nature of its theme.
Video
Lyrics
Oh, we ain’t got a barrel of money
Maybe we’re ragged and funny
But we’ll travel along, singin’ a song
Side by side
Don’t know what’s comin’ tomorrow
Maybe it’s trouble and sorrow
But we’ll travel the road, sharin’ our load
Side by side
Through all kinds of weather
What if the sky should fall
Just as long as we’re together
It doesn’t matter at all
When they’ve all had their quarrels and parted
We’ll be the same as we started
Just travelin’ along, singin’ our song
Side by side
See that sun in the mornin’
Peekin’ over the hill
I’ll bet you sure, it always has
And it always will
Well, that’s how I feel about someone
And somebody feels about me
We’re sure in love with each other
And that’s the way it’s gonna be
Oh, we ain’t got a barrel of money
Maybe we’re ragged and funny
But we’ll travel along, singin’ a song
Side by side
Don’t know what’s comin’ tomorrow
Maybe it’s trouble and sorrow
But we’ll travel the road, sharin’ our load
Side by side
Through all kinds of weather
What if the sky should fall
Just as long as we’re together
It doesn’t matter at all
When they’ve all had their quarrels and parted
We’ll be the same as we started
Just travelin’ along, singin’ our song
Side by side