Introduction
“Someone to Watch Over Me,” delivered in Willie Nelson’s signature smooth baritone, might seem like a natural fit for the country legend’s repertoire. But this tender ballad has a rich history far predating Nelson’s 1978 rendition.
Composed by the Gershwin brothers, George and Ira, the song debuted in the 1926 musical “Oh, Kay!” Originally sung by actress Gertrude Lawrence, the lyrics paint a picture of longing – a woman yearning for a protector, a confidant, a love. Though not a showstopper, the song’s quiet beauty resonated with audiences.
Interestingly, the now-iconic title wasn’t even in the original script. Legend has it that lyricist Ira Gershwin credited songwriter Howard Dietz with suggesting the evocative phrase “Someone to Watch Over Me.” The song’s melancholic charm was further amplified by the vulnerability Lawrence brought to the performance, singing to a ragdoll prop.
Following the musical’s run, “Someone to Watch Over Me” transcended its theatrical origins. Jazz vocalists like Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan embraced the song, establishing the slow, romantic ballad style that future interpretations, including Nelson’s, would follow. Frank Sinatra’s recordings in the 1940s and 50s further solidified the song’s place in the Great American Songbook.
Willie Nelson’s 1978 version on his album “Stardust” marked a turning point in his career. This foray into covering pop standards introduced Nelson to a wider audience while showcasing his ability to weave his signature country twang into unexpected genres. Nelson’s rendition of “Someone to Watch Over Me” retains the song’s core sentiment while infusing it with his own brand of weary tenderness, a testament to the song’s enduring ability to connect with listeners across generations and musical styles.