Popular Nostalgia

The old love story between Curly and Laurey is set in frontier America with farmers and cowboys aplenty. There are frequent songs as the film follows the musical faithfully and catered to audiences used to the format. The songs were released on LP in several volumes and have since become rare collectors’ items. The title song was so popular that it became the official state song in 1953 – forty-six years after statehood was acheived. The 1955 film won two Academy Awards for its music.

“People Will Say We’re In Love” Oklahoma! Lyrics

Laurey: Why do they think up stories that link my name with yours?

Curly: Why do the neighbors chatter all day, behind their doors?

Laurey:

I know a way to prove what they say is quite untrue.
Here is the gist, a practical list of “don’ts” for you.
Don’t throw bouquets at me
Don’t please my folks too much
Don’t laugh at my jokes too much
People will say we’re in love!
Don’t sigh and gaze at me
Your sighs are so like mine
Your eyes mustn’t glow like mine
People will say we’re in love!
Don’t start collecting things
Give me my rose and my glove.
Sweetheart they’re suspecting things
People will say we’re in love.

Curly:

Some people claim that you are to blame as much as I.
Why do y’ take the trouble to bake my favorite pie?
Grantin’ your wish, I carved our initials on that tree.
Jist keep a slice of all the advice you give so free.
Don’t praise my charm too much
Don’t look so vain with me
Don’t stand in the rain with me
People will say we’re in love!
Don’t take my arm too much
Don’t keep your hand in mine
Your hand feels so grand in mine
People will say we’re in love!
Don’t dance all night with me
Till the stars fade from above.
They’ll see it’s alright with me
People will say we’re in love.