Between The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea
| PROFILE | |
| Composer | Harold Arlen |
| Lyricist | Ted Koehler |
| Year Written | 1931 |
| About Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea | |
| This song by Harold Arlen was one of the early swing rhythm songs in 1931. It was recorded in the first few years by Louis Armstrong and Cab Calloway. The Benny Goodman recording, with vocals by Helen Ward, is also well-regarded. | |
Lyrics
Is there anyone around who cannot see
It’s the well known runaround that you’re giving me?
I suppose you’ll tell me I’m all wrong
It’s a bitter pill to take, coming from you
Though I’ve made a big mistake, what can I do?
I don’t know what makes me string along
I don’t want you
But I hate to lose you
You’ve got me in between
The devil and the deep blue sea
I forgive you
‘Cause I can’t forget you
You’ve got me in between
The devil and the deep blue sea
Well, I ought to cross you off my list
But when you come a-knocking at my door
Fate seems to give my heart a twist
And I come running back for more
I should hate you
But I guess I love you
You’ve got me in between
The devil and the deep blue sea
Session / Album Information
1964
“Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea” was recorded on September 4, 1964 and released in 1964 on the album Who Can I Turn To. It was arranged by George Siravo.
This recording released on:
- 1964: Columbia LP 12″: CS 9085 — Who Can I Turn To
- 1964: Columbia LP 12″ (Mono): CL 2285 — Who Can I Turn To
- 1965: Columbia 45: 3-39085
- 1995: Columbia CD: CK 66503 — Who Can I Turn To
- 2011: Disc #30 in The Tony Bennett Complete Collection (88697874602-JK29) Who Can I Turn To