Introduction:
Among the vast and brilliant catalog of Johnny Mathis, his rendition of the timeless classic “What’ll I Do?” stands as a supreme example of his interpretive genius. Originally penned by the legendary Irving Berlin in 1924, this song is a pillar of the Great American Songbook, a heartfelt lament that has been performed by countless artists. However, Mathis’s version elevates the song from a simple tune to a deeply personal and moving meditation on profound loss.
What sets this performance apart is Mathis’s unparalleled vocal control and emotional sincerity. His voice, with its signature silken tone and effortless vibrato, doesn’t strain for drama. Instead, it whispers of a quiet, profound heartache, making the listener feel the full weight of every word. He doesn’t just sing the lyrics; he embodies the feeling of an empty room, the quiet echo of a memory, and the overwhelming question of how to move forward when love has gone. The elegant, understated arrangement—often featuring lush strings and a gentle piano—perfectly frames his voice, allowing its pure, unadorned beauty to take center stage.
In an age of fleeting musical trends, this recording endures because of its unwavering honesty. It taps into a universal human experience: the quiet despair that follows a breakup. Mathis’s performance is not a theatrical display of emotion, but a vulnerable and authentic expression of a broken heart. He makes you feel the song, not just hear it.
To listen to Johnny Mathis sing “What’ll I Do?” is to experience vocal perfection married with a heartbreakingly beautiful story. It is a powerful reminder of why he is celebrated as one of music’s most cherished and enduring artists—a master storyteller who can convey an entire world of emotion with a single note.