Kitty Kallen It's Been A Long Long Time

Okay, let's talk about a song. A song that everyone seems to adore. A song that's practically synonymous with homecoming and happy tears. I'm talking about Kitty Kallen's "It's Been a Long, Long Time."

Now, before you grab your pitchforks and light your torches, hear me out. I'm not saying it's a bad song. It's just… maybe… slightly… overrated? There, I said it!

Don't get me wrong, the sentiment is lovely. A soldier coming home after World War II? Cue the waterworks. The lyrics are simple, sweet, and undeniably effective. "Kiss me once, then kiss me twice, then kiss me once again." I mean, who can argue with that math? It's all very romantic.

But here's my unpopular opinion: musically, it's a bit… vanilla. Like, plain ice cream vanilla. Tasty enough, sure. But compared to some of the other bangers of the era? Well, let's just say I wouldn't pick it first at the jukebox.

Think about it. We're talking about the 1940s! We had Glenn Miller, the Andrews Sisters, Frank Sinatra practically crooning America into submission. These were powerhouses! And then there's "It's Been a Long, Long Time," sitting politely in the corner, waiting for its turn to slow dance.

I get the historical context. I really do. Soldiers returning home after years of fighting deserved a feel-good anthem. And Kitty Kallen delivered. But sometimes, I think the historical significance overshadows the actual music. We're so busy remembering the homecoming that we forget to actually listen to the song.

And let's be honest, that opening is a bit… clunky. "Kiss me once, then kiss me twice…" It feels like someone was struggling to rhyme "time." Maybe they should have gone with "lime"? "Dime"? Okay, maybe not.

I know, I know. I'm being difficult. But I just think there are so many other incredible songs from that era that deserve just as much, if not more, attention. Songs with more pizzazz! More swing! More… something! You know?

Maybe it's just me. Maybe I'm immune to the song's charms. Or maybe I've just heard it too many times at weddings and anniversaries. Either way, I'm standing by my slightly controversial stance.

And before you accuse me of being a Grinch, let me clarify: I appreciate the song's message. I appreciate Kitty Kallen's voice. I just think it's time to broaden our horizons. There's a whole galaxy of swing and big band just waiting to be explored!

So, next time you hear "It's Been a Long, Long Time," take a moment to listen. Really listen. And then, maybe, just maybe, you'll understand where I'm coming from. Or maybe you'll just think I'm crazy. Either way, that's okay too.

But hey, at least we're talking about music! And that's always a good thing.

Alternatives to Consider (Just Saying!)

If you're looking for some slightly more… spicy… World War II-era tunes, may I suggest a few alternatives? How about The Andrews Sisters' "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy"? Or Glenn Miller's "In the Mood"? Or even something a little more melancholy, like Vera Lynn's "We'll Meet Again"?

These songs have the same historical weight, but with a little more pep in their step. They're guaranteed to get you tapping your feet, even if you're not a returning soldier.

Ultimately, music is subjective. What I find boring, you might find beautiful. And that's perfectly fine. But I just wanted to throw my little opinion out there. Maybe spark a little debate. Maybe even change a few minds. (Probably not, but hey, a girl can dream!)

So, what do you think? Am I totally off base? Or do you secretly agree with me? Let me know in the comments! (Just be nice, please. I'm sensitive.)

And one more thing: whether you love "It's Been a Long, Long Time" or not, remember to appreciate the music and the memories it evokes. After all, that's what it's all about.