I can remember this song when I was very young. It was a UK number one hit in 1969 - and even though its unbelievably nearly 60 years ago - I can still remember most of the lyrics!

The European themed lyrics describe a rags to riches story of a young girl, who ends up as a socialite in Paris.

However its the name checking of European culture, people and places that brings you in and makes this song so memorable - as well as the 3/4 waltz time and accordion and strings, gives this tune a very gallic and distinctly European feel.

The song mentions :

The back streets of Naples,Boulevard Saint-Michel, Rolling Stones records, Sacha Distel, Juan-le-Pins, topless swim suits and Napoleon brandy - even the Aga Khan!

It neatly sums up the popularity of French culture in the 60’s that was exported to the world, via French cinema and actors (Bardot, Vadim etc) , music (Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin , Francoise Hardy etc) and fashion (Yves Saint-Laurent, Pierre Cardin , Coco Chanel etc).

In some way it captures the exuberance of the post WW2 generation coming of age.

The song could be about Brigitte Bardot or Anita Pallenberg - or indeed anyone who had survived the horrors of WW2 (and occupation by the Nazis) as a child and flowered in the late 60’s as the next generation changing and challenging the old norms in society.

So for me the song works on several levels - its more than a love song - its like a time capsule looking at the sophistication of the late 60’s jet set enjoying Paris and the south of France.

Its a remarkable song written by Peter Starstedt - and the fact he focussed on European and French themes in particular -versus American - made this unique and memorable.

Musically - the waltz time and descending bass lines makes the song ebb and flow -and resolve in a most pleasing way- topped of with a smooth vocal with French affectations for full effect.

Go check it out, its wonderful!