About the song
“Killing Me Softly with Her Song” is a beautiful and poignant song that Perry Como covered with his characteristic warmth and charm. Originally written by Charles Fox and Norman Gimbel, the song was first popularized by Roberta Flack in 1973, who achieved great success with it. Flack’s version won several Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year. Perry Como, known for his smooth baritone voice and ability to convey deep emotion, brought his unique touch to the song, making it a favorite among his fans.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a listener who is deeply moved by a singer’s performance, feeling as if the song is speaking directly to their own experiences and emotions. The refrain, “Killing me softly with her song, telling my whole life with her words,” captures the intense connection and emotional impact that music can have on an individual. Como’s rendition is notable for its gentle delivery and emotional sincerity, allowing listeners to feel the profound sense of empathy and connection described in the lyrics.
Como’s version of “Killing Me Softly with Her Song” was featured on his album *Just Out of Reach*, released in 1975. The album included a mix of contemporary songs and standards, showcasing Como’s versatility as an artist. While Roberta Flack’s version of the song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and is often considered the definitive rendition, Como’s interpretation stands out for its heartfelt simplicity and the warm, comforting quality of his voice.
Perry Como’s approach to the song is reflective of his overall style—unpretentious, deeply musical, and emotionally resonant. His performance of “Killing Me Softly with Her Song” is a testament to his ability to connect with listeners and bring new dimensions to well-loved songs.
In conclusion, Perry Como’s rendition of “Killing Me Softly with Her Song” is a touching and memorable interpretation of a classic tune. His smooth vocal delivery and the emotional depth he brings to the song make it a standout track on the *Just Out of Reach* album. Como’s version continues to be appreciated by fans who admire his unique ability to make every song he sings feel personal and heartfelt.
Video
Lyrics
I heard she sang a good song
I heard she had a style
And so I came to see her
And listen for a while
And there she was this young girl
A stranger to my eyes
Strumming my pain with her fingers
Singing my life with her words
Killing me softly with her song
Killing me softly with her song
Telling my whole life with her words
Killing me softly with her song
I felt all flushed with fever, embarrassed by the crowd
I felt she found my letters and read each one out loud
I prayed that she would finish
But she just kept right on
Strumming my pain with her fingers
Singing my life with her words
Killing me softly with her song
Killing me softly with her song
Telling my whole life with her words
Killing me softly with her song
She sang as if she knew me in all my dark despair
And then she looked right through me as if I wasn’t there
But she was there the stranger
Singing clear and strong
Strumming my pain with her fingers
Singing my life with her words
Killing me softly with her song
Killing me softly with her song
Telling my whole life with her words
Killing me softly with her song
Killing me softly, with her song