An early Gershwin song from 1919.
Words by B. G. De Sylva and Arthur J. Jackson.
Music by George Gershwin.
The sheet music:
Accompaniment by James Pitt-Payne:
Lyrics
- I was born, my mother says
Upon a summer’s day
The marvelous event occurred at noon
That my parents had a winner
They knew right away
For in my mouth they found a silver spoon
My proud and loving authors
Gave me all I could request
My milk was always certified
My carriage was the best
And from then up to the present
I’ve lived like a king
And always had the best of ev’rything
Chorus
I get my rings and things from Tiffany
I go to Benson-Hedges for cigarettes
I always wear McCallum hosiery
I go to Budd for my cravats
Stetson makes my hats
A Rolls-Royce, the best thing on wheels
Was my choice of automobiles
I’ve always had the best of ev’rything
So, darling, I must have you
- When I look upon my life I find it terrible
There were so many things I was denied
For the clothes I could afford were scarcely wearable
And subways were a wallop to my pride
I had a champagne appetite but this was very clear
My income, as the saying goes could only pay for beer
I’ve been longing for the day when I can have my fling
And always have the best of ev’rything
Chorus
I’d like my sables from Revillon Freres
And Quelques Fleurs’ the scent that I love the best
I wish Tappe could make the hats I wear
I’d like the Ritz for ev’ry meal
Gowns made by Lucille
And my choice of motors is set
A Rolls-Royce would please me, and yet
I needn’t have the best of ev’rything
If I can always have you