Jussi Björling: Leoncavallo - Pagliacci, ’Vesti la giubba’

Johan Jonatan “Jussi“ Björling (play /ˈjuːsi ˈbjɔrlɪŋ/; 5 February 1911 -- 9 September 1960) was a Swedish tenor. One of the leading operatic singers of the 20th century, Björling appeared for many years at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City and less frequently at the major European opera houses, including the Royal Opera House in London and La Scala in Milan... Lyrics & English Translation Act! While in delirium and out of my brain, I do not know what I say and do, I’m down, And yet it’s necessary... make a strain! Bah! Are you not a man? You are a clown! Put on your costume, dip your face into farina. The people want to laugh, and they pay to be here. And if Harlequin shall steal your Columbina, laugh, clown, laugh, and then the audience will cheer! Turn your distress and tears into jest, oh, clown your pain and sobbing into a funny face, while playing your part -- Ah! Laugh, clown, at your love, that was broken down! Laugh at the grief that envenoms your heart! A link to this wonderful artists personal Website: Please enjoy! I send my kind and warm regards,