About the song
Bobby Darin’s rendition of “Mack the Knife” is a captivating interpretation of this classic song from the 1928 German musical “Die Dreigroschenoper” (The Threepenny Opera) by Kurt Weill and Bertolt Brecht. Originally titled “Die Moritat von Mackie Messer,” the song has been adapted into English by Marc Blitzstein and has since become a timeless standard in popular music.
Released in 1959 as a single and part of Darin’s album “That’s All,” “Mack the Knife” showcases Darin’s versatility as a singer and his ability to infuse jazz and swing elements into his performances. The song’s narrative style, recounting the exploits of the infamous criminal Mack the Knife, is complemented by Darin’s smooth vocals and the jazzy arrangement.
“Mack the Knife” was a monumental success for Bobby Darin, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. Its popularity extended internationally, topping charts in multiple countries and solidifying Darin’s reputation as a leading figure in the music industry during the late 1950s and early 1960s.
The song’s enduring appeal is evident in its continued presence in popular culture, with numerous artists covering it over the years. Darin’s version remains definitive, celebrated for its lively tempo, Darin’s charismatic delivery, and the memorable swing orchestration that accompanies it.
As one of Bobby Darin’s most iconic songs, “Mack the Knife” continues to be revered for its musicality and storytelling. Its blend of jazz, swing, and theatrical flair captivates listeners, making it a beloved classic that transcends generations. Bobby Darin’s rendition of “Mack the Knife” stands as a testament to his musical talent and his ability to interpret timeless songs with charm and sophistication.
Video
Lyrics
Oh, the shark, babe, has such teeth, dear
And it shows them pearly white
Just a jackknife has old MacHeath, babe
And he keeps it, ah, out of sight
You know when that shark bites with his teeth, babe
Scarlet billows start to spread
Fancy gloves, oh, wears old MacHeath, babe
So there’s never, never a trace of red
Now on the sidewalk, huh, huh, whoo sunny morning, un huh
Lies a body just oozin’ life, eek
And someone’s sneakin’ ’round the corner
Could that someone be Mack the Knife?
There’s a tugboat, huh, huh, down by the river don’tcha know
Where a cement bag’s just a-drooppin’ on down
Oh, that cement is just, it’s there for the weight, dear
Five’ll get ya ten, old Macky’s back in town
Now did ya hear ’bout Louie Miller? He disappeared, babe
After drawin’ out all his hard-earned cash
And now MacHeath spends just like a sailor
Could it be our boy’s done somethin’ rash?
Now Jenny Diver, ho, ho, yeah, Sukey Tawdry
Ooh, Miss Lotte Lenya and old Lucy Brown
Oh, the line forms on the right, babe
Now that Macky’s back in town
I said Jenny Diver, whoa, Sukey Tawdry
Look out to Miss Lotte Lenya and old Lucy Brown
Yes, that line forms on the right, babe
Now that Macky’s back in town
Look out, old Macky’s back