Introduction
Que Sera Sera: Doris Day’s Sunny Disposition Wrapped in a Song
Doris Day’s “Que Sera Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)” isn’t just a cheerful tune; it’s a cultural touchstone symbolizing optimism and acceptance. Released in 1956, the song became synonymous with Day thanks to its prominent feature in Alfred Hitchcock’s film “The Man Who Knew Too Much.” But the song’s origins stretch beyond the silver screen.
The melody for “Que Sera Sera” was actually composed by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans, a successful songwriting team known for their work on films and television throughout the 1940s and 1950s. The original lyrics, however, were quite different. Titled “Whatever Will Be, Will Be,” the song was a more melancholic ballad, reflecting on the uncertainties of life.
However, when “The Man Who Knew Too Much” went into production, director Alfred Hitchcock felt the original lyrics didn’t match the film’s tone. He requested a brighter, more optimistic version. Livingston and Evans obliged, rewriting the lyrics to create the now-famous “Que Sera Sera” with its carefree message of trusting the future.
Doris Day’s performance in the film cemented the song’s association with optimism. Her playful demeanor and signature smile perfectly embodied the song’s message of letting go and embracing what life throws your way. “Que Sera Sera” became an instant hit, topping the charts in the US and the UK.
The song’s cheerful melody and relatable message transcended its cinematic origins. It became an anthem for a generation seeking solace and optimism in a post-war world. “Que Sera Sera” has since been covered by countless artists, each adding their own interpretation to the enduring message.
Today, “Que Sera Sera” continues to be a beacon of sunshine. It’s played at weddings, used in commercials, and referenced in popular culture. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its simple yet powerful message – a reminder to face the future with a smile, trusting that whatever will be, will be. So, put on a smile, put on your dancing shoes, and get ready to be swept away by the timeless optimism of Doris Day’s “Que Sera Sera.”