The Ballad of High Noon

"The Ballad of High Noon" (or "Do Not Forsake Me, Oh, My Darlin'") is a popular song published in 1952, with music by Dimitri Tiomkin and lyrics by Ned Washington.^[1] It was introduced in the movie High Noon, sung over the opening credits by Tex Ritter. It was awarded the 1952 Academy Award for Best Original Song.^[1]

In the context of film music, "The Ballad of High Noon" is acclaimed not merely for its musical integration with High Noon's score, but also for expounding lyrically on the themes of honor and obligation which define the film. It is placed at #25 on "AFI's 100 Years... 100 Songs".

Recorded versions

• Johnny Bond (1976)
• Harry Brandelius with Sune Waldimir's orchestra. The Swedish lyrics were written by Sverker Ahde. The Swedish title is "Du får ej lämna mig". It was recorded in Stockholm on July 2, 1952, and released on the 78 rpm record His Master's Voice X 7817.
• Walter Brennan
• Roy Clark
• Connie Francis
• Frankie Laine (1952) - UK #7^[1]
• Nana Mouskouri (1993)
• Dean Reed (1982)
• Tex Ritter (1952)
• Sons of the Pioneers
• Legião Urbana

References

• Allison, Deborah (2003). ""Do Not Forsake Me: The Ballad of High Noon" and the Rise of the Movie Theme Song". Senses of Cinema. http://archive.sensesofcinema.com/contents/03/28/ballad_of_high_noon.html.