Perry Como, the epitome of the smooth, crooning vocalist, gifted the world with a timeless classic in 1957: “Round and Round.” Born Pierino Ronald “Perry” Como in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, he rose from barber to one of the most successful recording artists of the mid-20th century. Known for his relaxed demeanor and effortless vocal delivery, Como dominated the music charts with hits like “Catch a Falling Star,” “Magic Moments,” and of course, “Round and Round.” He earned numerous accolades throughout his career, including multiple Grammy Awards and Emmy Awards, solidifying his place as a beloved icon of American popular music.
“Round and Round,” a bouncy and cheerful waltz, captures the dizzying, euphoric feeling of being in love. The lyrics depict the feeling of being swept away by romantic infatuation, feeling like one is constantly circling around and around with their beloved. The metaphor of a merry-go-round perfectly encapsulates the joyful, slightly disorienting experience of being head-over-heels. It’s a song about the simple pleasures of love and the way it can make the world feel like a perpetual dance.
Upon its release, “Round and Round” quickly climbed the charts, hitting number one on the Billboard Top 100 and staying there for several weeks. The song resonated deeply with audiences, its infectious melody and relatable lyrics striking a chord with listeners of all ages. The song’s success was also fueled by its simple, universally appealing message of love and happiness. To this day, “Round and Round” remains a popular choice for weddings and romantic occasions, a testament to its enduring appeal and Perry Como’s unparalleled ability to capture the magic of love in song. The song continues to evoke feelings of nostalgia and pure joy among listeners.