Casablanca

The Soundtrack of Romance: A Groovy History of Casablanca’s Music

Casablanca, the iconic film set against the backdrop of World War II, is not only a love story, but also a treasure trove of timeless music. The film’s soundtrack, a blend of classic American standards and European waltzes, perfectly captures the atmosphere of the era, adding depth and emotion to the narrative.

The Jazz Age’s Echoes:

The film’s soundtrack is heavily influenced by the “Jazz Age” of the 1920s and 30s, with songs like “As Time Goes By” and “Play It Again, Sam” taking center stage. “As Time Goes By”, a 1931 composition by Herman Hupfeld, was actually considered dated by the time Casablanca was released in 1942. However, the film’s director, Michael Curtiz, insisted on its inclusion, and the rest is history! The song became synonymous with the film and even earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song.

A Waltz with Destiny:

The film also features several European waltzes, like “The Marseillaise”, the French national anthem, which is used both as a symbol of resistance and as a reminder of the French people’s struggles. But perhaps the most memorable waltz is “La Vie en Rose”, a French ballad written by Édith Piaf in 1945. While the song wasn’t released until after the film, its inclusion serves as a poignant reminder of the hope and beauty that still existed amidst the chaos of war.

A World of Music:

Casablanca features a diverse musical landscape, showcasing not just American and European styles, but also a hint of Arabic music with the song “The Shadow of Your Smile.” This musical diversity reflects the cosmopolitan setting of the film, where people from all walks of life are brought together by their shared experiences and dreams.

Funny Facts:

• The film’s iconic song “As Time Goes By” was almost replaced with “Avalon.” Thank goodness it wasn’t!
• “Play It Again, Sam” is never actually said in the film. It’s a line from the 1972 film of the same name, but the misquote became so popular it’s now often attributed to Casablanca.
• The famous scene where Sam plays the piano and sings “As Time Goes By” was filmed in one take. This speaks to the incredible talent of the actor, Dooley Wilson, and the film’s masterful use of music to convey emotions.

Casablanca’s soundtrack remains a testament to the power of music to transport us to different times and places, and to evoke the deepest emotions within us. It’s a collection of songs that continues to resonate with audiences decades later, reminding us of the enduring power of love, hope, and the human spirit.