Herb Reed, Last Of 'The Platters,' Dies : The Two-Way : NPR

About the Song

The Platters’ “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes” is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of listeners for decades. Released in 1958, this romantic ballad has become a staple of the Great American Songbook and continues to be enjoyed today.

The song’s lyrics tell the story of a heartbroken lover who reminisces about a lost love. The narrator expresses their regret and longing for the person they once loved, highlighting the bittersweet memories that remain. The song’s melody is both hauntingly beautiful and emotionally evocative, perfectly complementing the lyrics’ theme of love and loss.

The Platters’ vocal harmonies are a key element in the song’s success. The group’s four members, Tony Williams, Herb Reed, Joe Jefferson, and Gloria Ann Caldara, blend their voices seamlessly, creating a rich and textured sound that adds depth and emotion to the song.

“Smoke Gets In Your Eyes” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, each putting their own unique spin on the classic song. However, the Platters’ original version remains the definitive recording. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless beauty and universal message of love and regret.

Whether you’re a fan of classic pop music or simply appreciate a good love song, “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes” is a must-listen. Its timeless melody and heartfelt lyrics continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a true masterpiece of the genre.

The Platters | Artists | Black Music Project

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Lyrics: Smoke Gets In Your Eyes

They asked me how I knew
My true love was true
I of course replied
Something here inside
Can not be denied

They, said some day you’ll find
All who love are blind
When your heart’s on fire
You must realize
Smoke gets in your eyes

So I chaffed them, and I gaily laughed
To think they could doubt my love
And yet today, my love has flown away
I am without my love

Now laughing friends deride
Tears I cannot hide
So I smile and say
When a lovely flame dies
Smoke gets in your eyes

Smoke gets in your eyes