Begin the Beguine

song by Porter

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June 22, 2026

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"Begin the Beguine" is a song by American composer and lyricist Cole Porter. Porter was known for his sophisticated lyrics and music, which brought a worldly flair to American musicals. He composed numerous hit songs and musical comedies throughout his career.

The term "beguine" refers to a vigorous dance originating from the islands of Saint Lucia and Martinique, which bears some resemblance to the rumba. The song "Begin the Beguine" was written by Porter and became one of his most famous works.12

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Cole Porter
…Kick Out of You,” “Begin the Beguine,” “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” “In the Still of the Night,” “Just One of Those Things,” “Love for Sale,” “My Heart Belongs to Daddy,” “Too Darn Hot,” “It’s Delovely,” “I Concentrate on You,” “Always True to You in My Fashion,” and…
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…Kick Out of You,” “Begin the Beguine,” “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” “In the Still of the Night,” “Just One of Those Things,” “Love for Sale,” “My Heart Belongs to Daddy,” “Too Darn Hot,” “It’s Delovely,” “I Concentrate on You,” “Always True to You in My Fashion,” and…
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Julio Iglesias
…Iglesias’s Spanish version of “Begin the Beguine” by Cole Porter became the first all-Spanish song to reach number one on the British music charts.
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…Iglesias’s Spanish version of “Begin the Beguine” by Cole Porter became the first all-Spanish song to reach number one on the British music charts.
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Artie Shaw
…recording of Cole Porter’s “Begin the Beguine.” A string of hits followed, and Shaw’s popularity came to rival that of clarinetist Benny Goodman, the “King of Swing.” By this time Shaw had become known for his mercurial behavior and perfectionism. He was harshly critical of himself and of the…
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…recording of Cole Porter’s “Begin the Beguine.” A string of hits followed, and Shaw’s popularity came to rival that of clarinetist Benny Goodman, the “King of Swing.” By this time Shaw had become known for his mercurial behavior and perfectionism. He was harshly critical of himself and of the…
Read More