Song #3: “Again” by Lionel Newman & Dorcas Cochran (1948)

📺 Watch the full performance here:

About the Song

Again was composed by Lionel Newman with lyrics by Dorcas Cochran in 1948. It was originally introduced in the film Road House (not to be confused with the later Patrick Swayze film!) and quickly became a hit. Recorded by many artists — from Doris Day to Vic Damone (my favorite) — the song captures that haunting, unforgettable quality of mid-century ballads.

Composer & Lyricist

• Music: Lionel Newman

• Lyrics: Dorcas Cochran

Why I Chose This Song

I discovered Again through recordings by some of my favorite singers of the era, especially Vic Damone. There’s something about its nostalgic melancholy that pulls me in every time, and I knew it belonged in this series.

Favorite Lyric

“This is that once in a lifetime, this is the thrill divine.”