The Supreme Court struck down the so-called Defense of Marriage Act and upheld a lower court's dismissal of California's Proposition 8, which prevented same-sex marriage in that state. Let's celebrate the validation of civil rights with a song written over 80 years ago but still relevant today.
"Love Is Sweeping the Country" was composed by George Gershwin, with lyrics by his brother Ira. It was introduced in the 1931 political satire musical Of Thee I Sing, which won Ira Gershwin a Pulitzer Prize.
Note: I made two slight changes in the printed lyrics below to celebrate the day. See if you can find them.
Why are people gay?
All the night and day
Feeling as they never felt before
What is the thing that makes them sing?
Rich man, poor man, thief,
Doctor, lawyer, chief,
Feel a feeling that they can't ignore
It plays a part in every heart
And every heart is shouting, "Encore"
Love is sweeping the country
Waves are hugging the shore
All the sexes from Maine to Texas
Have never known such love before
See them billing and cooing like the birdies above
Each girl and girl alike sharing joy alike
Feels that passion'll, soon be national
Love is sweeping the country
There never was so much love
See them billing and cooing like the birdies above
Each boy and boy alike sharing joy alike
Feels that passion'll, soon be national
Love is sweeping the country
There never was so much love
The YouTube videos below feature two of America's greatest singers. The first is a romantic take from Ella Fitzgerald to remind us how serious the underlying theme of the decision really is. The second is a raucously joyful take from Judy Garland to celebrate it in style.