She Had To Go And Lose It At The Astor

Album: Harry Roy & His Band (1939)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Written by Don Ray and Hugh Prince, in February 2003 veteran broadcaster Desmond Carrington said this recording by Harry Roy & His Band came out in 1939 to a million stifled giggles. "She Had To Go And Lose It At The Astor" begins with a spoken introduction, and then a hunt for what is a sable cape, but of course the male voice chorus is full of double entendre.

    As Carrington pointed out, the song was initially banned by the BBC. Always a fruitless exercise, because if nothing else, this generates curiosity. >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Alexander Baron - London, England
  • In America, Johnny Messner and His Orchestra released a version around the same time. Pearl Bailey did a popular cover in 1957.

Comments: 1

  • George from Vancouver, CanadaHis other 'hit' was "My Girl's Pu--y"; very much an intended double entendre, so I would figure this one is, too. Nothing wrong with double entendre songs, if they've a carchy beat!
see more comments

Editor's Picks

James Bond Theme Songs

James Bond Theme SongsMusic Quiz

How well do you know the 007 theme songs?

Andy McClusky of OMD

Andy McClusky of OMDSongwriter Interviews

Known in America for the hit "If You Leave," OMD is a huge influence on modern electronic music.

Narada Michael Walden - "Freeway of Love"

Narada Michael Walden - "Freeway of Love"They're Playing My Song

As a songwriter and producer, Narada had hits with Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Starship. But what song does he feel had the greatest impact on his career?

Gary Brooker of Procol Harum

Gary Brooker of Procol HarumSongwriter Interviews

The lead singer and pianist for Procol Harum, Gary talks about finding the musical ideas to match the words.

Goodbye, Hello: Ten Farewell Tour Fake-Outs

Goodbye, Hello: Ten Farewell Tour Fake-OutsSong Writing

The 10 biggest "retirement tours" that didn't take.

David Clayton-Thomas of Blood, Sweat & Tears

David Clayton-Thomas of Blood, Sweat & TearsSongwriter Interviews

The longtime BS&T frontman tells the "Spinning Wheel" story, including the line he got from Joni Mitchell.