It's Been a Long, Long Time — Harry James and His Orchestra Lyrics

Song Details and Overview

• Release Date: September 17, 1945


• Producer: Jule Styne


• Writers: Sammy Cahn & Jule Styne


• Featuring: Kitty Kallen


• Label: Columbia Records


• Genres: Big Band, Pop


• Instrumentation: Vocals by Kitty Kallen, supported by a full big band orchestra


• Mood: Romantic, Nostalgic

Exploring the meaning of "It’s Been a Long, Long Time"

"It’s Been a Long, Long Time" is a poignant expression of reunion, longing, and the relief of love rekindled after a prolonged separation. Written during the waning days of World War II, the song captures the emotional intensity of couples reuniting after years of war-induced absence. It serves as both a romantic ballad and a cultural artifact reflecting the collective yearning for normalcy in a post-war world.

A Celebration of Reunion

The lyrics are direct yet deeply emotional, with lines like "Kiss me once, then kiss me twice" symbolizing the overwhelming joy and passion of reconnecting with a loved one. The repeated references to the passage of time—"It's been a long, long time"—underscore the pain of separation while amplifying the relief and happiness of being together again.

Emotional Depth and Nostalgia

• Post-War Context: Released in 1945, the song became an anthem for soldiers returning home and their families who had been waiting for them. Its themes of longing and reunion resonated deeply with a world recovering from the trauma of war.


• Dreams and Emptiness: The bridge, "You'll never know how many dreams I dream about you, or just how empty they all seem without you," captures the emotional void left by separation, making the song universally relatable to anyone who has experienced long-term longing.

The Role of Kitty Kallen’s Vocals

Kitty Kallen's performance adds a layer of warmth and tenderness to the song. Her voice carries an intimate quality that enhances the emotional resonance, making listeners feel as though they are eavesdropping on a deeply personal moment.

Instrumentation and Style

The lush orchestration led by Harry James features sweeping brass sections and a smooth saxophone solo, which underscore the romantic and nostalgic tone of the piece. The big band style, with its rich textures and dynamic arrangements, was quintessential to the era and amplified the song’s emotional impact.

Historical and Cultural Impact

"It’s Been a Long, Long Time" quickly became a chart-topping hit, with versions by both Harry James and Bing Crosby dominating the airwaves. The song's popularity speaks to its ability to encapsulate the feelings of an entire generation, cementing its place as a cultural milestone of the 1940s.

Songs similar to "It’s Been a Long, Long Time"

1. "As Time Goes By" by Dooley Wilson: This classic from *Casablanca* shares similar themes of longing and timeless love. Its piano-driven melody and heartfelt lyrics evoke the same nostalgic warmth as "It’s Been a Long, Long Time."


2. "I’ll Be Seeing You" by Billie Holiday: A song about hope and remembrance, it became an anthem for separated lovers during World War II, much like Harry James’s hit.


3. "Unforgettable" by Nat King Cole: With its velvety vocals and romantic lyrics, this track captures the enduring nature of true love, echoing the sentiments of James and Kallen's duet.


4. "The Way You Look Tonight" by Fred Astaire: This timeless ballad similarly celebrates love and admiration, with a melody that exudes sophistication and tenderness.


5. "Sentimental Journey" by Doris Day: Another post-war classic, it reflects the longing for homecoming and emotional fulfillment, much like "It’s Been a Long, Long Time."


6. "Someone to Watch Over Me" by Ella Fitzgerald: This jazz standard shares the emotional vulnerability and longing that are central to James and Kallen’s piece.


7. "Moonlight Serenade" by Glenn Miller: A big band staple, it evokes the same romantic nostalgia and emotional depth, set against a lush orchestral backdrop.


8. "At Last" by Etta James: A powerful declaration of love and fulfillment, it mirrors the themes of reunion and emotional catharsis found in "It’s Been a Long, Long Time."

Chart Performance and Legacy

The song topped the U.S. Billboard charts in 1945, becoming a defining piece of the post-war era. It has since been covered by countless artists and was prominently featured in the film *Avengers: Endgame* (2019), introducing it to a new generation of listeners. This inclusion reaffirmed its status as a timeless classic that transcends its original historical context.

Fan and Media Reactions

"This song feels like a warm hug after a long separation. It captures the bittersweet joy of reunion perfectly."

- Music Critic, 2024

"‘It’s Been a Long, Long Time’ is more than a song; it’s a memory, a piece of history wrapped in melody and love."

- Jazz Historian, 2023