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Introduction
There’s something utterly magical about the first few notes of “It’s Not For Me To Say.” When Johnny Mathis’s velvety voice glides into this ballad, time seems to stand still. Released in 1957, this song wasn’t just another track—it was a defining moment that helped establish Mathis as one of the most distinctive vocalists of his era.
Written by Robert Allen and Al Stillman for the film “Lizzie,” this song carries a beautiful uncertainty at its core. The recurring phrase “it’s not for me to say” captures that universal feeling we’ve all experienced—wanting to believe a love will last forever, but knowing we can’t predict the future. There’s something profoundly human about acknowledging this limitation while still cherishing the present moment.
What makes this recording special is how Mathis delivers each line with such genuine emotion. His impeccable phrasing and that signature controlled tenor create an intimate atmosphere, as if he’s sharing a personal confession. Ray Conniff’s elegant arrangement provides the perfect backdrop, never overwhelming Mathis’s voice but enhancing its emotional impact.
The song became a massive hit, reaching #5 on the Billboard charts and spending an impressive seven weeks at #2 in Canada. More importantly, it helped define the dreamy, romantic sound that would become Mathis’s trademark. Along with “Chances Are” and “Wonderful! Wonderful!,” this song cemented his reputation as the voice of sophisticated romance.
Decades later, “It’s Not For Me To Say” remains a timeless testament to love’s beautiful uncertainty—a song that continues to touch hearts with its delicate balance of hope and vulnerability.
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Lyrics
It’s not for me to say you love me
It’s not for me to say you’ll always care
Oh, but here for the moment, I can hold you fast
And press your lips to mine, and dream that love will last
As far as I can see, this is heaven
And speaking just for me, it’s ours to share
Perhaps the glow of love will grow with every passing day
Or we may never meet again, but then it’s not for me to say
And speaking just for me, it’s ours to share
Perhaps the glow of love will grow with every passing day
Or we may never meet again, but then it’s not for me to say