Hello Young Lovers – Lydia Ibrahim
‘Hello Young Lovers’ is a song that truly captures being young, fresh and very much in love. Sinatra describes his nostalgia as knowing “how it feels to have wings on your heels / and to fly down the street in a trance”. He almost sounds like a grandparent – telling you how you should value your youth and spend your time carefree, rather than being caught in the sad aftermath of love.
The song is a show tune from the 1951 musical, the King and I. However, Sinatra released the song as part of his album, Hello Young Lovers, released in 1987. Frank was able to carry the heartfelt message with little musical assistance and with his voice he transmitted an air of compassion and solicitude.
Unlike many of his other songs which are particularly jazzy, ‘Hello Young Lovers’ exposes the exquisitely tranquil tone of Sinatra. He portrays the love he has felt to be mutual to all “young lovers, whoever you are”. The illustration of the lust he portrays is truly a charming one; it is a common felt feeling to many young people who have experienced love. He reminisces that whilst his love is lost and he is now alone, the youthful lives of others should continue to blossom. Through his golden vocals, he is able to spread this sincere message. His voice still carries the same level of emotional gravity today, and will continue to do so.