The legendary American tenor and Hollywood star of Italian origin, Mario Lanza sings “Drink, drink, drink”, a spirited tenor aria from the operetta “The Student Prince,” which premiered in 1924. The operetta itself, with music by Sigmund Romberg and book and lyrics by Dorothy Donnelly, is based on Wilhelm Meyer-Förster’s play “Old Heidelberg.” In this video, which is an excerpt from the 1954 American musical film directed by Richard Thorpe, also named “The Student Prince”, the English actor Edmund Purdom (19 December 1924 – 1 January 2009) is lip-synching to Mario Lanza’s recordings.
During production, original star Mario Lanza left the project before principal photography, necessitating his last-minute replacement by the lesser-known Purdom. Because of the contractual agreement between Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and Lanza, songs that Lanza had recorded were dubbed over Purdom’s voice.
Drink, drink, drink
“Drinking Song”, commonly known as “Drink, drink, drink” is a song composed by the Hungarian-born American composer Sigmund Romberg (July 29, 1887 – November 9, 1951) with lyrics by the American actress, playwright, and librettist Dorothy Donnelly (January 28, 1876 – January 3, 1928).
In the narrative of “The Student Prince,” the protagonist, Prince Karl Franz, is sent to the University of Heidelberg to continue his studies away from the royal court. While there, he learns about friendship, love, and everyday life away from his princely duties. He falls in love with a barmaid named Kathie, which complicates his life due to his royal obligations. The operetta delves into themes of love, duty, sacrifice, and the contrasts between royal life and ordinary experiences.
“Drink, Drink, Drink” is sung in a celebratory context as the students toast the joys of youth, love, and the freedom to live passionately. It’s a lively song and is a highlight of the operetta, showcasing the tenor’s vocal prowess and ability to convey exuberance.
The song is emblematic of the zest for life that “The Student Prince” seeks to portray. Its infectious melody and enthusiastic lyrics make it a favorite among tenor arias from operettas. The song is often performed in concert settings and has been recorded by numerous tenors over the years.
“The Student Prince” itself is sometimes called the best of the American operettas, and “Drink, Drink, Drink,” along with other songs from the operetta, played a significant role in its popularity.
Related: Mario Lanza sings Come Prima
“Drink, drink, drink” lyrics
Drink! Drink! Drink!
To eyes that are bright as stars
When they’re shining on me!
Drink! Drink! Drink!
To lips that are red and sweet
As the fruit on the tree!
Here’s a hope that those
Bright eyes will shine lovingly,
Longingly soon into mine!
May those lips that are red
And sweet, tonight with joy my own lips meet!
Drink! Drink! Let the toast start!
May young hearts never part!
Drink! Drink! Drink!
Let every true lover salute his sweetheart!
Drink! Drink! Drink!
To arms that are white and warm
As a rose in the sun!
Drink! Drink! Drink!
To health that will last long, long
When I am gone
Here’s a hope that those soft
Arms will twine
Tenderly, trustingly soon around mine!
May those lips that are red and sweet
Tonight with joy my own lips meet
Drink! Drink! Let the toast start!
May young hearts never part!
Drink! Drink! Drink!
Let every true lover salute his sweetheart!
Let’s drink!
Drink! Drink! Drink!
To eyes that are bright as stars when
They’re shining on me!
Drink! Drink! Drink!
To lips that are red and sweet as the
Fruit on the tree!
Here’s a hope that those bright eyes will shine
Lovingly, longingly soon into mine
May those lips that are red and sweet
Tonight with joy my own lips meet
Drink! Drink! Let the toast start!
May young hearts never part!
Drink! Drink! Drink!
Let every true lover salute his sweetheart!
Let’s drink
Sources
- The Student Prince (film) on Wikipedia
- The Student Prince on Wikipedia
- Drinking Song on Wikipedia
