Cole Porter’s “What Is This Thing Called Love?” is a jazz standard renowned for its intricate musicality and enduring popularity. This timeless composition continues to captivate audiences and inspire musicians generations after its debut. But what makes this song so special? Let’s explore the musical brilliance and lyrical charm of “What Is This Thing Called Love?”.
The Enduring Musical Legacy of “What Is This Thing Called Love?”
Musicologists consistently applaud the masterful construction of both the melody and harmony in “What Is This Thing Called Love?”. The seamless blend of strength and beauty in its composition has solidified its place as one of Cole Porter’s most performed and arranged works. The song’s complex harmonic structure provides a rich foundation for improvisation, constantly challenging jazz musicians to explore new interpretations while remaining connected to the original essence. A prime example of this influence is John Coltrane’s “Fifth House,” based on Tadd Dameron’s “Hot House,” which itself draws inspiration from Porter’s masterpiece.
The song’s form follows a traditional A1 – A2 – B – A3 structure, alternating between major and minor tonalities to create a dynamic and engaging listening experience. The harmonic progression in the “A” section, utilizing a I – iv – V7 – I sequence with decorative diminished chords, cleverly blends elements of blues and North African folk song. The “B” section introduces a temporary key change to Bb major, creating an exotic, almost Eastern feel through the use of F7, Ab, and G7 chords. This unexpected shift adds a layer of complexity and intrigue to the composition.
Beyond the Music: Exploring the Lyrics
While the musical complexity of “What Is This Thing Called Love?” often takes center stage, the lyrics also deserve recognition for their thoughtful craftsmanship. In contrast to the adventurous harmony, the words tell a classic love story, devoid of any references to the exotic influences present in the music. From the opening line, “I was a humdrum person,” the lyrics trace a familiar arc of love found and lost, culminating in the recurring question posed to the listener: “What Is This Thing Called Love?”
Porter skillfully balances the relationship between words and music in this composition. The lyrics, while charming and well-suited to the melody, are deliberately understated, allowing the musical brilliance to shine. This restraint is particularly evident in the song’s frequent instrumental performances, where the melody and harmony take center stage, proving Porter’s instinct for balance to be remarkably accurate.
A Timeless Classic: The Enduring Appeal of “What Is This Thing Called Love?”
“What Is This Thing Called Love?” stands as a testament to Cole Porter’s genius. Its innovative musicality and timeless lyrical themes continue to resonate with musicians and audiences alike. The song’s ability to inspire new interpretations while retaining its core identity ensures its enduring legacy as a true jazz standard. From its complex harmonic structure to its simple yet poignant lyrics, “What Is This Thing Called Love?” remains an enduring exploration of the complexities of love and the power of music.
| Musical Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Original Key | C major; temporary modulation to Bb major in “B” section |
| Form | A1 – A2 – B – A3 |
| Tonality | Alternates between major and minor keys |
| Melodic Movement | Primarily stepwise and skipping downward, with occasional upward leaps; 40% sustained pitches |
| Harmonic Progression | “A” section: I – iv – V7 – I (with diminished chords as decorative substitutions); “B” section: F7, Ab, G7, creating an “Eastern” feel |
(Musical analysis by K. J. McElrath – Musicologist for JazzStandards.com)
