Introduction
This is My Song” is a timeless classic, most famously performed by Engelbert Humperdinck, but its origins and journey to stardom are quite interesting.
The song was actually written by the legendary Charlie Chaplin for his 1967 film “A Countess from Hong Kong.” Chaplin envisioned it as a throwback to the romantic songs of the 1930s and even wanted Al Jolson to sing it in the film. However, Jolson had passed away years earlier, a fact Chaplin only accepted after being shown a photo of his tombstone! Ultimately, the song was featured in the film as an instrumental piece.
Meanwhile, Petula Clark, a popular British singer at the time, heard the song and recognized its potential. Despite initial reservations from her usual collaborator, she was determined to record it. This led to a fascinating international endeavor, with Clark recording the song not only in English but also in French (“C’est Ma Chanson”), German (“Love, So Heisst Mein Song”), and Italian (“Cara Felicità”).
While Clark’s versions found success in various countries, it was Engelbert Humperdinck’s rendition that truly captured the world’s attention. His powerful vocals and passionate delivery resonated with audiences, turning “This is My Song” into a global hit. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its beautiful melody, heartfelt lyrics, and the magic each artist brought to their interpretation.
Today, “This is My Song” remains a beloved classic, a reminder of the power of music to transcend languages and cultures, and a testament to the genius of Charlie Chaplin, the determination of Petula Clark, and the vocal prowess of Engelbert Humperdinck.