Paris, the City of Love, has long evoked an air of fantasy and romance.
Couples from around the world flock to Paris to share a kiss in front of the Eiffel Tower, stroll hand in hand down intimate cobblestone streets, and picnic under the iconic bridges that span the Seine.
It's no wonder that many popular love songs have been inspired by this enchanting city. Over the centuries, poets, writers, and lyricists have been drawn to Paris, finding that the city's charm brings out their passionate, flirty, and seductive sides.
Here are four beloved love songs inspired by Paris, showcasing how the city has influenced some of the greatest love songs of all time. And remember, if you're inspired to visit Paris, don’t forget to consider travel insurance before you go!
Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong – “April in Paris” (1932)
While it’s been covered by many of the world’s greatest Jazz and pop musicians since first released in 1932 (like Count Basie, Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, and Doris Day), the most popular rendition of this iconic duet was by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong.
Originally composed for the 1932 Broadway musical "Walk a Little Faster," "April in Paris" is a smooth jazz ballad and a literal love letter to Paris in the spring. While it has been covered by many great jazz and pop musicians, the most popular rendition is by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. Composed by E.Y. Harburg, the same lyricist who wrote "Over the Rainbow" for "The Wizard of Oz," this iconic duet captures the essence of Parisian romance.
Lyrics like “I never knew my heart could sing… Never missed a warm embrace… Till April in Paris… Whom can I run to… What have you done to my heart”, evoke a timeless charm. If you visit Paris in April, travel at the beginning of the month as the peak season commences around the end of the month, allowing you to enjoy balmy weather while avoiding the crowds.
Dean Martin – “Under the Bridges of Paris” (1955)
Released in 1913 in French as "Sous les Ponts de Paris," this song became immortalized as a timeless love ballad when Dorcas Cochran released English verses in 1952. Dean Martin's 1955 rendition, with its rich tones and romantic lyrics, topped the UK charts and remains one of the most beloved versions.
There have been many covers since, most notably Dean Martin’s 1955 rendition that topped the UK charts. Though many argue that it’s even more romantic in French, whether or not you understand the language.
Lyrics like "How would you like to be… Down by the Seine with me… Oh, what I'd give for a moment or two… Under the bridges of Paris with you" are enough to make anyone fall in love. For a touch of authenticity, listen to Eartha Kitt’s 1953 recording in French. Her soulful voice, backed by an accordion, has undoubtedly inspired many couples to book a trip to Paris.
Elton John & Bernie Taupin - Your Song
In the romantic classic “Moulin Rouge”, one of the heart-stopping moments features Ewan McGregor dancing across the rooftop with Paris glittering in the background, serenading Nicole Kidman with “Your Song”. The lyrics, “I hope you don’t mind… I hope you don’t mind… That I put down in words… How wonderful life is while you’re in the world”, capture the essence of eternal love.
Composed by the legendary Elton John, with lyrics by Bernie Taupin, "Your Song" has been a beloved piece since its release in 1970. Over the years, it has been covered by modern artists like Lady Gaga and Ellie Goulding, cementing its place in the Grammy Hall of Fame and being named by Rolling Stone Magazine as one of the greatest songs of all time.
Although "Your Song" was originally written in London, its association with Paris has become inextricable thanks to Baz Luhrmann's "Moulin Rouge" soundtrack and the unforgettable rooftop scene have made "Your Song" a symbol of the film Parisian romance, demonstrating the power of music to inspire and capture the feeling of eternal love.
Andy Williams - Under Paris Skies
“Stranger beware, there's love in the air under Paris skies… Try to be smart and don't let your heart catch on fire… Love becomes king the moment it's Spring under Paris skies… Lonely hearts meet somewhere on the street of desire.”
“Under Paris Skies” is the English version of the original 1951 ballad “Sous le ciel de Paris”. Written for the French film of the same name, it was released in English by Andy Williams in 1960, infusing it with an American jazz and swing twist.
The most iconic French rendition comes from Yves Montand, whose version, beautifully accompanied by an accordion, has solidified the song as a symbol of Parisian romance. This timeless classic continues to enchant listeners, evoking the magic and allure of the City of Light.
So, if you’re planning your next getaway, let "Under Paris Skies" inspire your romantic adventures and make sure you consider travel insurance before you go!