Do It Again: The Spontaneous Creation of a Gershwin Classic
Some of the most enduring pieces of music are born not from months of labor, but from a single moment of creative synergy. Such was the case with "Do It Again," a song composed by the legendary George Gershwin. Described as "innocently sensual," the piece captures the playful spirit of the early 20th century and serves as a testament to the improvisational genius of its creator.
The Chance Encounter
The origins of the song date back to a casual meeting in the office of Max Dreyfus, Gershwin's publisher. According to an account Gershwin provided in 1934, the collaboration began when lyricist Buddy DeSylva entered the room and jokingly challenged Gershwin to write a hit on the spot.
Accepting the challenge, Gershwin sat at the piano and began composing a theme immediately. As the melody took shape, DeSylva listened for several minutes before chanting the phrase "Oh, Do It Again!" which he had instinctively fitted to the music Gershwin was playing.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]From Private Parties to Broadway
Before becoming a public success, Gershwin performed the song at private parties. The track's infectious energy caught the attention of Irène Bordoni, a prominent performer of the era, who insisted that the song be included in her upcoming production.
The song eventually found its way into the Broadway play The French Doll. This production was an adaptation by A.E. Thomas, based on an original French play written by Paul Armont and Marcel Gerbidon. The show premiered on February 20, 1922, at the Lyceum Theatre, where it ran for a total of 120 performances.
Key Facts
- Composer: George Gershwin
- Lyricist: Buddy DeSylva
- Premiere Date: February 20, 1922
- Venue: Lyceum Theatre
- Broadway Show: The French Doll
- Total Performances: 120
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Original Play | The French Doll |
| Adaptor | A.E. Thomas |
| Original Authors | Paul Armont and Marcel Gerbidon |
| Key Performer | Irène Bordoni |
| Publisher | Max Dreyfus |
Frequently Asked Questions
How was the song "Do It Again" written?
The song was written spontaneously in the office of publisher Max Dreyfus. George Gershwin composed the melody on the piano on the spot, while Buddy DeSylva provided the title and lyrics in real-time.
In which Broadway show did the song first appear?
The song first appeared in the play The French Doll, which premiered in 1922.
Who was responsible for adapting The French Doll for Broadway?
The play was adapted by A.E. Thomas from a French original written by Paul Armont and Marcel Gerbidon.
How successful was the run of The French Doll?
The production premiered at the Lyceum Theatre on February 20, 1922, and ran for a total of 120 performances.
Who insisted that the song be included in the show?
Irène Bordoni insisted on performing the song in her show after hearing Gershwin play it at parties.