The Meaning Behind The Song: Paper Doll by The Mills Brothers
The Significance of Paper Doll by The Mills Brothers
Paper Doll by The Mills Brothers was a song that was released in 1942, written by Johnny S. Black. It quickly became a hit, topping the charts for 12 weeks straight. It was known for its catchy tune and lyrics, but what made it truly significant was the way it became a symbol for the troops fighting in World War II.
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The song was a favorite among soldiers and became an anthem of sorts for them during the war. The soldiers would sing it to themselves or to one another to help boost morale and keep their spirits up. The lyrics were meaningful to them and provided a reminder of home and their loved ones.
The Lyrics of Paper Doll by The Mills Brothers
The lyrics of Paper Doll are simple yet poignant. It talks about an imagined girl made of paper and how the singer dreams of being with her. The chorus is what really stuck with the troops:
“I’m gonna buy a Paper Doll that I can call my own
A doll that other fellas cannot steal
And then the flirty, flirty guys with their flirty, flirty eyes
Will have to flirt with dollies that are real”
This chorus became a rallying cry for the soldiers and gave them something to hold onto during difficult times. It’s a reminder that there is something they can call their own and they can hold onto that when everything else is uncertain.
FAQs about Paper Doll by The Mills Brothers
1. Who wrote Paper Doll?
Paper Doll was written by Johnny S. Black in 1930. Black was a songwriter and composer who wrote several popular songs in his career.
2. What inspired Johnny S. Black to write Paper Doll?
The inspiration for Paper Doll came from Black’s daughter who had been playing with paper dolls at the time. He was struck with the idea that someone could have a paper doll of their own that no one else could take away.
3. When was Paper Doll released?
Paper Doll was released in 1942 by The Mills Brothers. It quickly became a hit and stayed at the top of the charts for 12 weeks.
4. Why was Paper Doll significant during World War II?
Paper Doll became a favorite among soldiers during World War II and became an anthem of sorts for them. The lyrics were meaningful to them, providing a reminder of home and their loved ones.
5. What was the message behind Paper Doll?
The message behind Paper Doll was one of ownership and holding onto something that is yours. It was a symbol for the soldiers during the war that they had something they could call their own.
6. Who sang Paper Doll?
Paper Doll was originally sung by The Mills Brothers, a popular American jazz and pop vocal quartet.
7. What made Paper Doll so catchy?
Paper Doll was catchy because of its upbeat melody and simple yet poignant lyrics. It was easy to remember and sing along to, making it a favorite among soldiers.
8. Was Paper Doll a hit?
Yes, Paper Doll was a hit and stayed at the top of the charts for 12 weeks after it was released.
9. Were there any other popular songs by The Mills Brothers?
Yes, The Mills Brothers had several popular songs including Glow Worm, Lazy River, and You Always Hurt the One You Love.
10. What genre of music is Paper Doll?
Paper Doll is considered to be a pop and jazz song.
11. Has Paper Doll been covered by other artists?
Yes, Paper Doll has been covered by several artists including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and The Four Aces.
12. What is the legacy of Paper Doll?
The legacy of Paper Doll is that it became a symbol for the troops during World War II and gave them something to hold onto during difficult times. It’s a reminder of the power of music and how it can bring people together.
