April in Paris (song)

"April in Paris" is a popular song composed by Vernon Duke, with lyrics by Yip Harburg. It was written for the Broadway musical Walk a Little Faster, which premiered in 1932. Despite the musical's short run, the song became a standard, enduring through numerous recordings and performances.

The song's lyrics romanticize Paris in the springtime, associating the city with love, beauty, and optimism. The phrase "April in Paris" has since become a cultural shorthand for the idealized Parisian experience.

The original stage version featured Evelyn Hoey singing the song. However, numerous artists have recorded the song, contributing to its widespread popularity. Notable recordings include those by Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, and Count Basie. The Count Basie Orchestra's instrumental version, featuring a dramatic key change, is particularly well-known and frequently used in film and television.

The song's enduring appeal lies in its evocative melody, poetic lyrics, and association with the romantic image of Paris. It remains a popular choice for performers and listeners alike, representing a timeless symbol of spring, love, and the allure of the French capital.