Let a Smile Be Your Umbrella

“Let a Smile Be Your Umbrella” is a cheerful 1927 song that encourages optimism in the face of gloom, using the metaphor of a smile as protection against life’s rainy days. 

Composed by Sammy Fain with lyrics by Irving Kahal and Francis Wheeler, it was first published in 1927 and quickly became a popular standard. 

Its uplifting message and jazzy tone have inspired numerous recordings over the decades, including notable versions by Roger Wolfe Kahn (1928), The Andrews Sisters (1949), Bing Crosby (1957), and Perry Como (1959).

Once I met a happy little bluebird
I was just as blue as I could be
In a little while I began to smile
When he sang this merry song to me

Just let a smile be your umbrella
On a rainy, rainy day
And if your sweetie cries just tell her
That a smile will always pay

Whenever skies are gray don't worry or fret
A smile will bring us sunshine and you'll never get wet
So let a smile be your umbrella
On a rainy, rainy day

Let a smile be your umbrella
On a rainy, rainy day
And if your sweetie cries just tell her
That a smile will always pay

Whenever skies are gray don't worry or fret
A smile will bring us sunshine and you'll never get wet
So let a smile be your umbrella
Be your big umbrella on a rainy, rainy day