“Stranger in Paradise.” The very name evokes a sense of mystery and allure, doesn’t it? This isn’t just a song; it’s an experience, a journey to a world painted with hauntingly beautiful music and lyrics. As part of payoffsong.com, dedicated to exploring the stories behind the music that moves us, we delve deep into the captivating history of this timeless classic, often searched for as “Strangers Song.” Prepare to be swept away by a tale that spans continents and decades, revealing the intricate origins and enduring appeal of “Stranger in Paradise.”
From Russia with Melancholy: The Genesis of a Beloved Tune
The melody that makes “Stranger in Paradise” so instantly recognizable wasn’t born on Broadway. Its roots lie deep within the rich tapestry of Russian classical music. The soul-stirring tune originates from “Polovtsian Dances,” specifically the “Gliding Dance of the Maidens,” a segment of the opera Prince Igor by Alexander Borodin. Borodin, a composer who also held a distinguished career as a doctor and chemist, dedicated nearly two decades to Prince Igor, a masterpiece left unfinished upon his death in 1887. Little did he know, his composition would transcend its operatic origins to captivate audiences worldwide in a completely new form.
Kismet and Broadway Magic: “Stranger in Paradise” Finds Its Voice
Fast forward to 1953, and Borodin’s melody found its way to the bright lights of Broadway. The musical Kismet, adapted by Robert Wright and George Forrest, ingeniously incorporated the “Polovtsian Dances” melody into what would become “Stranger in Paradise.” Wright and Forrest, while crafting a completely new lyrical narrative, openly acknowledged their adaptation, ensuring Borodin’s legacy was honored. In fact, Borodin posthumously received a Tony Award in 1954 alongside Wright and Forest for Kismet‘s score, a testament to the enduring power of his original composition. Another standout song from Kismet, “And This is My Beloved,” also drew inspiration from Borodin’s work, highlighting the depth of his influence on the musical.
The premiere of Kismet on Broadway coincided with a New York newspaper strike, casting uncertainty over the show’s initial reception. In a bid to boost ticket sales, producers turned to Tony Bennett, requesting him to record “Stranger in Paradise.” Bennett, a rising star at the time, agreed, and the song was released as the B-side to “Rags to Riches.” Fate intervened, and “Stranger in Paradise” resonated deeply with the public, climbing the charts and peaking at #2. Ironically, it was “Rags to Riches,” the A-side, that ultimately held the top spot, but “Stranger in Paradise” had undeniably captured hearts.
From Stage to Screen: “Stranger in Paradise” in Hollywood
The success of Kismet on Broadway naturally led to a Hollywood adaptation. In 1955, MGM brought Kismet to the silver screen, directed by Vincente Minnelli. The film featured Vic Damone and Ann Blyth performing the now-iconic “Stranger in Paradise,” further solidifying its place in popular culture. The movie also starred Howard Keel and Dolores Gray, adding to its star power. Interestingly, an earlier Kismet film adaptation existed, released in 1940 starring Marlene Dietrich, but it lacked the now-famous musical score, including “Stranger in Paradise,” highlighting how crucial the Wright and Forrest adaptation became to the story’s enduring appeal.
The Mystery of “My Fantasy”: An Earlier Echo?
But the story of “Stranger in Paradise” takes another intriguing turn. Years before Kismet graced Broadway and Tony Bennett topped the charts, clarinetist Artie Shaw released a recording in 1940 titled “My Fantasy.” Credited to “Whiteman-Meskitt-Edwards” with Pauline Byrne on lead vocals, “My Fantasy” also featured the very same melody from Borodin’s Prince Igor opera as its core. However, “My Fantasy” presented different lyrics and a modified bridge, and notably, made no mention of Borodin’s original work. This raises a fascinating question: Were the creators of Kismet aware of Artie Shaw’s “My Fantasy”? The connection remains a captivating piece of the puzzle in the song’s rich history.
An Enduring Paradise: A Song Loved Across Generations
The journey of “Stranger in Paradise” is a testament to the timeless beauty of Borodin’s melody and the magic woven around it by Wright and Forrest. From its operatic origins to its Broadway and Hollywood triumphs, and through countless interpretations, the song continues to enchant. The fact that Prince Igor and the “Polovtsian Dances” are still performed globally underscores the enduring power of the original music. And the sheer number of artists who have recorded “Stranger in Paradise” – from Tony Bennett and Bing Crosby to Johnny Mathis and Sarah Brightman, a diverse list spanning genres and generations – proves its universal appeal. This enduring popularity is a revelation, highlighting how deeply this “strangers song” has resonated with musicians and listeners alike. We celebrate the resources that preserve and share these musical treasures, allowing us to continuously rediscover the magic of songs like “Stranger in Paradise.”
Explore Notable Versions of “Stranger in Paradise”:
- Doretta Morrow and Richard Kiley (Aug. 17, 1953) – first live performance in Kismet
- Four Aces featuring Al Alberts (Nov., 1953)
- Vic Damone with Richard Hayman and His Orchestra (Nov., 1953)
- Tony Bennett with Percy Faith and His Orchestra (Nov., 1953)
- Doretta Morrow & Richard Kiley (Dec., 1953)
- Tony Martin with Hugo Winterhalter’s Orchestra & Chorus (Dec., 1953)
- Bing Crosby (1954)
- Ann Blyth and Vic Damone (1955)
- Johnny Mathis (1959)
- Caterina Valente with Werner Muller and His Orchestra (1960)
- Billy Eckstine (1961)
- Della Reese (1962)
- Keely Smith (1962)
- The Tymes (1964)
- Lenny Welch (1964)
- John Gary (1964)
- Gordon MacRae and Dorothy Kirsten (1964)
- The Supremes (1966)
- Jerry Vale (1966)
- Jim Nabors (1967)
- Matt Monro (1967)
- The Bachelors (1967)
- Isaac Hayes (1977)
- Sainte Etienne (1992)
- Elaine Paige (1993)
- Neil Young (1993)
- Engelbert Humperdinck (1995)
- Jack Jones (1997)
- Petula Clark (1998)
- Sarah Brightman (2003)
- Tony Bennett with Andrea Bocelli (2011)
- Michael Ball and Alfie Boe (2017)
Dive into the enchanting world of “Stranger in Paradise.” Explore these versions and discover your own favorite rendition of this truly timeless song.
