The first inaugural speech to invoke the great American standard, “Pick Yourself Up,” Jerome Kern music, Dorothy Fields lyrics.
From the text of President Obama’s speech: “Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.”
From the lyrics of “Pick Yourself Up,” famously performed in the 1936 film, “Swing Time,” starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. (YouTube clip.)
Nothing’s impossible, I have found.
For when my chin is on the ground,
I pick myself up, dust myself off,
Start all over again.Don’t lose your confidence if you slip.
Be grateful for a pleasant trip,
And pick yourself up; dust yourself off;
Start all over again.Work like a soul inspired
‘Til the battle of the day is won.
You may be sick and tired,
But you’ll be a man, my son.Will you remember the famous men
Who had to fall to rise again.
So take a deep breath;
Pick yourself up;
Dust yourself off;
Start all over again.
Wonderful song, excellent sentiments…
Diana Krall performs it.
UPDATE: And how much more Presidential than a reference to Jay-Zee and “Dirt Off Your Shoulder.”
