The Meaning Behind The Song: Where the Turf Meets the Surf Down at Old Delmar by Bing Crosby
Bing Crosby’s “Where the Turf Meets the Surf Down at Old Del Mar” is a song that speaks to the heart of horse racing enthusiasts. The tune is often played before the start of the race at the Del Mar racetrack, which is located just north of San Diego, California. The lyrics of the song detail the love of the sport and the beauty of the location. With its evocative imagery, the piece has become a staple at races held at Del Mar, and many horse racing fans view the song as an ode to the romance of the sport.
Table of Contents
The History of the Song
The song was written in 1959 by Jule Styne, Betty Comden, and Adolph Green as part of a musical called Say, Darling, which premiered on Broadway in that same year. The show was a satire about the world of theater and starred David Wayne and Vivian Vance. Even though the musical received mixed reviews, the song “Where the Turf Meets the Surf Down at Old Del Mar” was a hit.
The Significance of the Title
“Where the Turf Meets the Surf Down at Old Del Mar” is a reference to the location of the Del Mar Racetrack, which sits next to the Pacific Ocean. Horse racing fans and enthusiasts affectionately call the track ‘Where the surf meets the turf.’ The lyrics of the song describe the beautiful scenery that surrounds the racetrack, which only adds to the excitement and atmosphere of the sport.
The Lyrics Explained
The lyrics of the song perfectly capture the excitement, romance, and beauty of horse racing. The opening line, “Oh, the turf meets the surf, in old Del Mar” speaks to the location of the racetrack and the sea that is just beyond it. The lyrics go on to describe the anticipation and excitement of watching the horses thunder down the track, with phrases such as “down the stretch” and “flying in the home stretch.” Crosby’s smooth, soothing voice and the lyrics by Styne, Comden, and Green transport listeners to the world of the track and the beauty of the California coastline.
FAQs
1. What inspired the song?
The song was inspired by the Del Mar Racetrack and its picturesque location.
2. Who wrote the lyrics for the song?
Betty Comden, Adolph Green, and Jule Styne wrote the lyrics for the song.
3. What musical genre is the song?
The song is considered to be part of the traditional pop genre.
4. Who performed the song?
The song was famously performed by Bing Crosby.
5. What is the Del Mar Racetrack?
The Del Mar Racetrack is a San Diego-area horse racing facility that hosts live events during the summer months.
6. When was the song written?
The song was written in 1959.
7. What is the story behind Say, Darling?
Say, Darling was a Broadway musical satirizing the world of theater.
8. Where is Del Mar located?
Del Mar is a coastal city located just north of San Diego, California.
9. Why is the song important to horse racing enthusiasts?
The song speaks to the excitement and beauty of horse racing and captures the essence of the sport.
10. What is the significance of the title?
The title references the location of the Del Mar Racetrack and the sea that lies just beyond it.
11. Why is the song significant to visitors of Del Mar?
The song captures the beauty of Del Mar’s coastline and the thrill of watching horse races at the track.
12. Can you hear the song played during horse races at Del Mar?
Yes, it is a common tradition to play the song before the start of each race held at the Del Mar Racetrack.
