Jimmy McHugh - On the Sunny Side of the Street Lyrics (2025)

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Jimmy McHugh, Dorothy Fields

About On the Sunny Side of the Street

For the Pogues song, see Sunny Side of the Street (song)"On the Sunny Side of the Street" is a 1930 song composed by Jimmy McHugh with lyrics by Dorothy Fields. Some authors say that Fats Waller was the composer, but he sold the rights to the song. It was introduced in the Broadway musical Lew Leslie's International Revue starring Harry Richman and Gertrude Lawrence. Richman and Ted Lewis enjoyed hit records with the song in 1930.


Year:
2003
2:03
1,046Views

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Walked with no one and talked with no oneAnd I had nothing but shadowsThen one morning you passedAnd I brightened at lastNow I greet the day and complete the dayWith the sun in my heartAll my worry blew awayWhen you taught me how to sayGrab your coat and get your hatLeave your worry on the doorstepJust direct your feetTo the sunny side of the streetCan't you hear a pitter-pat?And that happy tune is your stepLife can be so sweetOn the sunny side of the streetI used to walk in the shadeWith those blues on paradeBut I'm not afraidThis Rover crossed overIf I never have a centI'd be rich as RockefellerGold dust at my feetOn the sunny side of the streetGrab your street

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Jimmy McHugh

James Francis McHugh (July 10, 1894 – May 23, 1969) was an American composer. One of the most prolific songwriters from the 1920s to the 1950s, he is credited with over 500 songs. His songs were recorded by such artists as Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Judy Garland (who ended up dying only one month after McHugh's), Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, Chet Baker, Dinah Washington, June Christy, Peggy Lee, Deanna Durbin, and Ella Fitzgerald. more »

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Sheet Music PDF Playlist

Written by: Dorothy Fields, Jimmy McHugh

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, RESERVOIR MEDIA MANAGEMENT INC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

15 facts about this song

Origin

"On the Sunny Side of the Street" was composed by Jimmy McHugh and the lyrics were written by Dorothy Fields. It's a jazz standard, popularized by artists like Fats Waller, Harry Richman, and Ted Lewis.

Debut Performance

The song was first performed by Harry Richman in the 1930 Broadway show "International Revue".

Recording History

Fats Waller, a famous jazz musician and composer, performed an iconic interpretation of this song in 1940, making it one of the classic versions of this jazz standard.

Influence

The song is important in jazz history and has been covered by numerous artists, including Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Count Basie.

Recognition

In 2004, the song "On the Sunny Side of the Street" was added to the Library of Congress' National Recording Registry, which preserves audio recordings deemed "culturally, historically, or aesthetically important, and/or inform or reflect life in the United States."

Versatility

"On the Sunny Side of the Street" has been interpreted in many different styles, from traditional jazz to big band swing to pop, demonstrating its versatility and enduring popularity.

Movie Appearance

It was also featured in the 1951 film "On the Sunny Side of the Street" starring Frankie Laine.

Ted Lewis' Contribution

Clarinettist and bandleader Ted Lewis also popularized the song in his performances and recordings.

Iconic Lyrics

The song's lyrics are about choosing a positive outlook and perspective despite challenging circumstances, making it a beloved anthem of optimism.

Popular Culture

It has also appeared in numerous TV shows, advertisements and films including "It's a Wonderful Life", lending further to its status as a cultural icon.

Song Structure

The song follows a typical AABA structure, a common form for pop and jazz music during the first half of the 20th century.

Musical Characteristics

The song's melody is noted for its warmth and accessibility, often lauded for its simplicity and effectiveness. The ability to swing or play it straight makes it a popular choice for musicians to showcase their own unique styles.

Legacy

Through its influence and widespread popularity, "On the Sunny Side of the Street" remains a fundamental part of the Great American Songbook, a collection of the most significant and influential American popular songs and jazz standards from the early 20th century.

Band Performances

Bands led by the likes of Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman also played their own interpretations of the song, contributing to its enduring legacy.

Sheet Music Sales

"On the Sunny Side of the Street" was also quite popular as a sheet music, reflecting the public's interest in playing the song at home or in social settings.

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Jimmy McHugh - On the Sunny Side of the Street Lyrics (2025)
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