Cole Porter was a prolific American composer and songwriter known for his wit, sophistication, and enduring contributions to the world of music and musical theater. Here are some interesting facts about Cole Porter and his famous song "Anything Goes":
"Anything Goes" Premiered in 1934: "Anything Goes" is a popular song from the musical of the same name, which premiered on Broadway in 1934. The musical was a huge success and featured an array of memorable songs, with "Anything Goes" being one of the most iconic.
Cole Porter Wrote Both Music and Lyrics: Unlike many songwriters of his time, Cole Porter wrote both the music and lyrics for his songs. This gave him greater creative control and allowed him to craft songs with intricate wordplay and clever melodies.
The Song's Lively Lyrics: The lyrics of "Anything Goes" are known for their wordplay and innuendo. Lines like "In olden days, a glimpse of stocking was looked on as something shocking, but now, God knows, anything goes" reflect the changing social norms of the time and Porter's penchant for humor.
Renowned for His Wit: Cole Porter was celebrated for his sharp wit and sophisticated humor. His lyrics often featured clever wordplay and double entendres, making his songs stand out in the world of musical theater.
Wide Influence: Porter's music and songs have had a lasting impact on the world of music. Many of his compositions have been covered by various artists and continue to be part of the Great American Songbook. "Anything Goes" has been recorded by numerous artists over the years.
Broadway Success: In addition to "Anything Goes," Cole Porter composed many other successful Broadway musicals, including "Kiss Me, Kate," "Can-Can," and "The Gay Divorce." His contributions to musical theater earned him multiple Tony Awards and a lasting legacy in the genre.
Personal Challenges: Despite his professional success, Cole Porter faced personal challenges, including a debilitating horseback riding accident in 1937 that left him in chronic pain. He continued to write music and perform despite his physical limitations.
Hollywood Connections: Porter's music was featured in numerous Hollywood films, and he had connections with many Hollywood stars of his time. His songs were featured in movies like "High Society," starring Bing Crosby and Grace Kelly.
Iconic Signature: Cole Porter often used a distinctive, sweeping arch-shaped signature, which has become iconic in itself and is associated with his name.
Legacy: Cole Porter's music and songs continue to be celebrated today, with revivals of his musicals and performances of his songs by contemporary artists. His contributions to American music and musical theater remain influential and timeless.
"Anything Goes" remains one of Cole Porter's most enduring and beloved compositions, a testament to his talent for crafting catchy tunes with clever, memorable lyrics.