Al Hirschfeld’s Oscar Levant
Oscar Levant started writing songs in his teens, and the first one he ever wrote was “Keep Sweeping the Cobwebs off the Moon.” It received lyrics by Sam Lewis and Joe Young, and was published in 1927. It was featured in the 1929 film Lucky Boy and was sung by George Jessel.
I was surprised to learn how many other interpretations of this song are out there on the internet. Special recognition goes to Ruth Etting, a personal favorite of mine, and to a more contemporary Barbara Rosene.
Download fake-book style sheet music to “Keep Sweeping the Cobwebs off the Moon” here: Keep Sweeping the Cobwebs off the Moon
Lyrics to “Keep Sweeping the Cobwebs off the Moon” by Sam Lewis and Joe Young:
Verse 1: Come on, children, and gather around.
I’ve got a lot to tell.
Because the clouds are grumbling,
don’t think the world is tumbling.
No need worrying, lose that frown.
You’ll soon be feeling well.
A little home philosophy will help you shake that spell.
Chorus: Change all of your gray skies.
Turn them into gay skies,
and keep sweeping the cobwebs off the moon.
What good is your pining?
Find your silver lining, and keep sweeping the cobwebs off the moon.
You’ll make the clouds hurry away,
humming a lovely love song.
Some, some lucky day somebody may come along.
Chase all of your sorrow.
Take care of tomorrow,
and keep sweeping the cobwebs off the moon.
Verse 2: Some want sunshine, and some want rain.
We look thru different eyes.
We all make money funny ways.
Umbrella men hate sunny days.
Some keep sighing without pain.
They never realize
what’s bound to be is bound to be
and here’s what I advise.
Gershwin 100 