About the song
“As Time Goes By” is a timeless jazz standard written by Herman Hupfeld in 1931. This song, with its melancholic melody and poignant lyrics, became an iconic piece of American music history, achieving lasting fame through its prominent feature in the 1942 classic film *Casablanca*. In the film, it is performed by Dooley Wilson, who played the role of Sam, the pianist at Rick’s Café Américain. Despite Wilson being a drummer by trade, his heartfelt rendition, with piano accompaniment provided by studio pianist Jean Vincent Plummer, became one of the most memorable scenes in cinematic history.
The song’s enduring popularity is reflected in its remarkable accolades and numerous cover versions. It was voted No. 2 on the American Film Institute’s list of the top 100 movie songs, only surpassed by “Over the Rainbow” from *The Wizard of Oz*. This recognition is a testament to its significant impact on the cultural landscape.
The song was initially published in the key of E-flat major and was sung in D-flat major in *Casablanca*. It has since been performed in various keys by different artists, including C major, B-flat major, A major, and E-flat major. Frank Sinatra’s version, for instance, is notable for its B-flat major key.
Due to a musicians’ strike from 1942 to 1944, Wilson could not make a commercial recording of the song during the height of its popularity. Consequently, RCA Victor reissued Rudy Vallée’s 1931 recording, which then surged to the top of the charts, becoming a number one hit eleven years after its original release. Brunswick also reissued Jacques Renard’s 1931 recording around this time.
The song’s resurgence in *Casablanca* and its reissues cemented its status as a quintessential jazz standard. Over the years, “As Time Goes By” has been covered by a multitude of legendary artists, including Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, Nancy Sinatra, Natalie Cole, and Bob Dylan. Each rendition brought a unique interpretation while preserving the song’s nostalgic essence.
Additionally, “As Time Goes By” served as the title and theme song for the 1990s British romantic comedy series of the same name, further showcasing its versatility and broad appeal. In 1999, National Public Radio included it in its “NPR 100,” a list of the most important American musical works of the 20th century, highlighting its significant cultural impact.
In the modern era, the song continues to evoke a sense of nostalgia and is often used in films and television series that reflect this sentiment. An instrumental version of the song’s closing bars has accompanied the studio logo of many Warner Bros. Pictures and Warner Bros. Television productions since 1999, paying homage to the studio’s production of *Casablanca*.
In summary, “As Time Goes By” is more than just a song; it is a cultural touchstone that has transcended its origins to become an enduring symbol of love, memory, and timelessness. Its journey from a 1931 composition to a globally recognized standard underscores its extraordinary ability to connect with audiences across generations.
Video
Lyrics
You must remember this
A kiss is just a kiss
A sigh is just a sigh
The fundamental things apply
As time goes by
And when two lovers woo
They still say, “I love you”
On that you can rely
No matter what the future brings
As time goes by
Moonlight and love songs
Never out of date
Hearts full of passion
Jealousy and hate
Woman needs man, and man must have his mate
That no one can deny
It’s still the same old story
A fight for love and glory
A case of do-or-die
The world will always welcome lovers
As time goes by
Moonlight and love songs
Never out of date
Hearts full of passion
Jealousy and hate
Woman needs man, and man must have his mate
That no one can deny
It’s still the same old story
A fight for love and glory
A case of do-or-die
The world will always welcome lovers
As time goes by