Bing Crosby - Bon Vivant

I had a dear old guardian
And he had ways Edwardian
A tea every day, if he burped he would say
Oh I beg your pardion to me

Now I’ve obtained seniority
And come to my majority
I’ve traveled far
Tasted snails, caviar
So with some authority I say

If you want a Bon Vivant to brighten up the scene
Or a jolly extra man to give the party sheen
Strolling on the Parthenon, or bowling on the green
I play mandolin ‘n tambourine
Will travel

If you want a Bon Vivant who only aims to please
Punting on the Hellesponts for at my lady’s tease
Tickling her fancies
And her risibilities
Just drop a note to me
My services are free
For I’m the Bon Vivant you want

All around the ante room
The butler chased the maid
Out the door and down the path
And through the leafy glade
Using my binoculars, I followed the parade
While the soup was getting cold
He still perused her
Though his eel persistent, still his efforts went for not
She opened up an early leave
And never would be caught
When the race was over, and seeing her distraught
I took her in my arms
Allaying her alarms
Saying I’m the Bon vivant you want

Now for the life men dream about
Days that a king might scheme about
Once I have got my palatial yacht
I shall slowly steam about the brine

Fie on the word ‘economy’
I’ll live a life of bonhomie
Sail into port for a life pour le sport
Full of rare gastronomy and wine

Visiting my auntie boo in tiny liechtenstein
Strolling through ze meadowlands amongst ze lowing kine
Flirting mit ze milking maid mit cheeks of apple shine

Strolling up the timber line und sheeing
Dueling the Hapsburgs ah ze carefree days zey vere
Yust before the chancellor positioned up ze Ruhr
Drinking beer at Heidelberg and holding hands with her
My consort is the maid, who made the butler fade, so if you need a pair for your piét de tierre
Just drop a note to me and for a modest fee
I’ll be the bon vivant you want

Bing Crosby, born Harry Lillis Crosby Jr. on May 3, 1903, in Tacoma, Washington, was an iconic American singer known for his soothing baritone voice and intimate singing style. He rose to fame in the 1930s and quickly became a household name, dominating the music scene throughout the 1940s and 1950s.

Crosby's smooth vocals and effortless charm endeared him to audiences around the world, earning him numerous hit songs and accolades. He is best known for timeless classics such as "White Christmas," "Pennies from Heaven," and "Swinging on a Star."

Aside from his successful music career, Crosby also ventured into acting, starring in a number of popular films such as "Going My Way," for which he won an Academy Award for Best Actor. He also appeared in the iconic holiday film "Holiday Inn," which further solidified his status as a beloved entertainer.

Throughout his career, Crosby's influence extended beyond his own success, shaping the sound of popular music and inspiring countless artists. His unique vocal style and innovative techniques paved the way for future crooners such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Perry Como, who all cited Crosby as a major influence.

Despite his immense talent and popularity, Crosby remained humble and down-to-earth, earning him the admiration of fans and peers alike. He continued to perform and record music until his passing on October 14, 1977, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to resonate with music lovers to this day. Bing Crosby will always be remembered as a true pioneer in the world of music and entertainment.