Introduction:
“Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)” is a song that has become synonymous with an optimistic outlook on life, and while most famously associated with Doris Day, it was also covered by the beloved vocal group, The Lennon Sisters. Their rendition of the song was released in 1956, the same year as Doris Day’s hit version. The Lennon Sisters’ take on “Que Sera, Sera” was prominently featured on The Lawrence Welk Show, where they were regular performers from 1955 to 1968. As a popular song of the era, their version falls squarely into the traditional pop and easy listening genres, characterized by smooth vocal harmonies and a generally light, family-friendly appeal.
Unlike Doris Day’s rendition, which was released as a single and famously won an Academy Award for Best Original Song from the film The Man Who Knew Too Much, The Lennon Sisters’ version of “Que Sera, Sera” was more of a popular live performance staple on The Lawrence Welk Show. While they did release numerous albums throughout their career with Dot Records, their version of “Que Sera, Sera” wasn’t typically a lead single for them, nor did it achieve the same chart-topping success as Day’s. Instead, its achievement lies more in its contribution to their broad appeal on television and their consistent presence in American households. The Lennon Sisters were known for their wholesome image and harmonious vocals, and their performance of “Que Sera, Sera” solidified their reputation as a quintessential act of the 1950s and 60s, entertaining millions of viewers each week. Although it may not have garnered specific chart accolades for them, their memorable interpretation of the song played a significant role in their enduring popularity and established them as one of America’s most cherished musical families. It remains a testament to their ability to deliver popular standards with grace and charm, making it a beloved part of their extensive repertoire.